Wanda Stephens: ACA half-truths

Regarding the May 29 letter “Health care freedom”: Rep. Chris Malone’s letter just reinforced my belief that many of our lawmakers’ opposition to Obamacare is based on their own preconceived notions and not the facts.

His statement that everyone is required to purchase health insurance or be fined is a half-truth. Actually individuals at certain low income levels or who qualify for “hardship” exemptions (due to misfortunes such as bankruptcy, death of a close family member or eviction from their home) are not fined.

Another false statement is “Obamacare requires people to purchase bloated plans.” The truth is consumers have a wide selection of plans that include the less expensive high-deductible plans.

Despite Malone’s remarks to the contrary, North Carolina residents already have the freedom to choose plans that allow them to “keep a trusted physician” or fit their individual needs.

Has it ever occurred to Malone that allowing people to go without health insurance is not in the best interest of their health? It also presents a problem to the medical providers who need to find a way to deal with the uninsured from both a medical and a fiscally responsible perspective.

This story was originally published June 5, 2015 at 4:58 PM with the headline "Wanda Stephens: ACA half-truths."