Healthcare

A recent study by the National Institutes of Health reveals a dark correlation between an individual’s income and that individual’s life expectancy. On average a person in the top 1% of income will live 12 years longer than a person living at or near the poverty line. Healthcare is the largest factor contributing to this gap.

My goal for 35B is to ensure that everyone has access to healthcare, including reproductive healthcare, by instituting a single-payer system. However, I want to make clear that this does not mean significantly increasing tax rates. Instead, I want to address the ways in which money is mismanaged in our current medical system, and redistribute the funds that are already there in a more efficient way.

Contrary to common belief, medicare for all would also provide the patient with increased freedom to choose their provider, as they would not be restricted by which clinics are covered through their insurance plan. You will still have the option to keep your current doctor, if you so choose.

COVID-19 has brought immediate attention to the need for healthcare reform. It is critical for the health of our community that everyone has access to medical care when they need it, and that insurance cannot be tied to one’s employment status. This would also alleviate small businesses of the financial burden of providing health coverage, another economic benefit of medicare for all. 

Medicare for all is about protecting your neighbors, family, friends, and ultimately yourself, and it is the right choice for Minnesota.