John,
Two of my daughters called me crying this week because they were afraid of the spread of COVID-19.
One was concerned about her health insurance copays. The other was worried about travelling home for Spring Break, and whether or not her college campus would shut down.
Their fears aren’t unfounded. The virus, its quick spread, and the potential expense of testing and hospital stays have proven how ill-equipped the current U.S. healthcare system is to handle a possible pandemic, and how frightened most of us are not just at the thought of getting sick, but of being able to afford to get sick.
We need a healthcare system focused on the health and wellbeing of all Americans.
Sign here to support Medicare for All.
In Miami, a man developed flu-like symptoms after a recent trip to China. He did what he thought he was supposed to do: he went to the hospital to get tested.
Though he tested negative for the coronavirus, he was left with a $3,270 medical bill for the test.
Because he had limited insurance, that bill is now $1,400 – a crippling expense for many working people. People hear this and then just stay away, don’t get tested and contribute to the spread of the virus.
Sign here if you agree: Healthcare is a human right.
According to a 2018 study published by the West Health Institute and NORC at the University of Chicago, 44 percent of Americans have admitted to skipping a recommended medical test or treatment because of the cost.
Without insurance or paid leave, many people can’t afford to take work off to go get tested or to self quarantine.
People without insurance or with high deductibles will not get tested, delay care until they are very sick or, even more likely, go without care if they contract the virus. This should worry us all.
Join us in our fight for Medicare for All.
COVID-19 provides a poignant and immediate case for Medicare for All, but we can (and should) make the case for Medicare for All every day even absent a pandemic.
Those with diabetes can’t afford the insulin they need to stay alive. For them, every day is life or death. People with chronic conditions are forced to wait to get care because they can’t afford their copays or deductibles. Cancer treatments can force some to file for bankruptcy. Immigrants face the fear of deportation if they use public health services.
Enough is enough. When I’m Senator, we’re going to pass Medicare for All. I won’t stop fighting for it until we get there.
In the meantime, take care of yourself. Check in on your neighbors. Send gratitude to the healthcare workers who are taking care of those who are sick.
In Solidarity,
Betsy Sweet
Betsy Sweet for U.S. Senate
PO Box 487
Hallowell, ME 04347
United States
If you believe you received this message in error or wish to no longer receive email from us, please unsubscribe.
