Much criticism has been leveled at the "public option" portion of the healthcare reform legislation being considered by Congress. Critics say it is only a short step from that to single-payer, full-blown socialized medicine.

While driving by the new VA hospital being built in The Villages I thought, "Wait a minute. What is VA insurance if not socialized medicine?" The government decides how many facilities there will be and where. The doctors and surgeons work for a salary. The government negotiates for lower prices for drugs offered to it's insured vetrans. They also use their purchasing power to hold down the costs of other supplies and consumables. Yet seldom do we hear complaints from veterans over the skill or quality of care. I've heard no outraged demands to get rid of the government-run VA from those insured, politicians, or even the political pundits. Why?

Would those of you who have VA insurance exchange it for coverage from a private insurer? Would you trade your VA prescription drug coverage for a private policy? If not, why not?

Just wondering.