An easier approach

I firmly believe that the best health care is available and delivered in the USA. We do not want to lessen the passion, intellect, ingenuity, advancements or compassion that goes on within our system. We do, however, need to improve patient education initiatives, health care coverage and cost control.

The extreme overhaul of our current health care system is bound to result in a backlash of unintended consequences. Please let us approach reform in a scientific (not political) manner and consider the following tangible and achievable steps:

Set up a system to provide 100 percent universal coverage. The government should assist those who cannot afford insurance but should not infringe upon those who can.

Prohibit the restriction of pre-existing conditions.

Allow insurers to compete nationally across state lines.

Develop an integrated, national electronic medical record system.

Develop a system to identify providers who are outliers and order excessive tests.

Develop legitimate tort reform.

This approach can be enacted more quickly than the current reform plan and will be easier to evaluate in terms of effect and benefit. This approach will also call on government, insurers, providers and attorneys to contribute toward improving the access, quality and cost of health care.

John F. Reilly, M.D.

Cary