The passing of Obamacare and current Republican effort appear to have nothing in common. However, the approach is quite similar. Each began with a single aim and seemed to have little concern about other consequences. Democrats wanted to decrease the number of uninsured and Republicans want to cut taxes and spending. Both promised to cut premiums when it would have the opposite effect. Obamacare brought coverage to many sick people so obviously costs went up. There are a number of ways the Republican plan will increase premiums. They are cutting the subsidies. Eliminating the mandate will cause many healthy people to drop their coverage. Cuts in Medicare and Medicaid will likely increase costs elsewhere. Both parties put their efforts into passing legislation with little thought on how to administer it. Remember the healthcare.gov debacle? Most important of all, both approaches focus on funding of health care rather than trying to rein in the cost of health care. If the Republicans pass a bill, I believe they will regret it. It will likely cost them politically and have as many other negative consequences. If they want to succeed, they will focus on controlling the cost of health care first. There is a lot that could be done on a bipartisan basis. I recognize that my views are well outside the norm for both parties. I have a different perspective because of considerable experience in the health care industry and as a patient.
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