I can't believe anyone can be so naive, misinformed or whatever Luana Benzmiller's problem is with regard to the health-care issue (Forum, Aug. 5). She said, "The issue doesn't seem that difficult. One of two possibilities would do wonders for us." She concludes that "they have worked in the industry for over 20 years." I wonder which industry? Certainly not the medical or insurance industry.

She recommends "moving ahead on socialized medicine" with the comment that "too many countries are having a degree of success with this for us to ignore it." I don't know where she has been for the past number of years, but just the opposite is true. Many countries have found that it is too expensive and just doesn't work. Canada is a good example.Further, she said, "Another option is for insurance companies to lower their rates . . . " Two questions for Ms. Benzmiller: How does she think insurance rates are set? And, what does she think insurance companies pay claims with?

Just as is true of all businesses, insurance companies must make a profit. Otherwise, they would be out of business. Rates are determined by actuary tables that show the probability of loss (claims). From these, they determine what income is needed to cover those claims plus a profit.

Based on the above, Ms. Benzmiller should know that insurance companies could lower their rates if the providers (doctors and hospitals) would lower their costs, if the ambulance chasing lawyers would stop filing unnecessary suits, and the courts would stop making such ridiculous judgments.

Finally, she says that where they have socialized medicine they pay higher taxes "but were willing to pay it." What's the difference between paying high medical bills, high insurance rates and high taxes? It's all money out of our pockets. Personally, I would like to be more in control of how I spend my money rather than turn it over to a bureaucracy that can't even manage their own affairs properly.

Lynn J. Boulter

Salt Lake City

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