Why should I be required to pay for someone else's preventable obesity, for the effects of someone else's choice to smoke, or for the effects of someone else's choice to abuse substances, like alcohol or drugs (legal as well as illegal)?
At the ripe, young age of 76 and as someone who has dedicated my life to maintaining a healthy lifestyle — including daily exercise, and a healthy diet — I find myself wondering, why should I be required to pay into a fund that supports the results of others' unhealthy choices?
What if health insurance premiums were connected to the health we maintain — much like auto insurance premiums are based on our safe driving records?
I believe in taking care of those who cannot do so for themselves. My concern is in becoming a hostage to those who have the ability to make healthier choices and either refuse to do so or find it easier to rely on those of us who do.
Does anyone else agree with me? Perhaps I need to be better informed about the Affordable Care Act.
Juana Terry
Provo