From the health care archives

I think America needs some hope on the health care issue.

So let’s go back to 2009 when David Cutler visited my studio. He’s a Harvard Professor, and at the time, he was the new president’s health care adviser – and we discussed the same questions we are still asking today.

Back in 2009, I asked, would my premiums be lower or higher than I’m paying now?

“Definitely lower,” said Cutler. “I think we would see premiums be a lot lower for people and it’s one of the things that hasn’t particularly been emphasized. Within a few years – say, five to 10 years – we should be able to save the typical American family at least $2,500 a year on medical spending.”

$2,500 a year?

“Now that family, between what they’re spending now through their premium and out of pocket, pay for taxes for public programs, they’re spending probably $20,000 to $25,000.”

And you wouldn’t take it back in the form of a higher tax some place?

“No, that goes back into your pocket,” said Cutler.

And back in 2009, he had more specific numbers than we’re getting now!

“So take what is currently a family premium of $13,000 or $14,000 on average, and the vast bulk of people who look at it think we should be able to provide better coverage at a premium that’s not $13,000 or $14,000, but maybe $8,000 or $9,000,” he explained.

So take heart – if everything goes according to the plans as they were in 2009, all this gnashing of teeth will soon be nothing but an unpleasant memory. And your damaged teeth will be fully covered at an affordable rate.