Quote:
Originally Posted by Villages PL
Some were disappointed that the conversation was limited to hospitals, smoking and being overweight. It was limited because I was referencing an article I read in the newspaper. And I happened to add "being overweight."
But this thread is open to EVERYTHING that might raise health care costs. That means smoking, being overweight, being anorexic, driving too fast, being an alcoholic, or a drug user, etc..
My position: I stand for greater accountability in all areas where lifestyle plays a role. If people don't take personal responsibility to live a healthy lifestyle, they should be the ones to pay higher health insurance premiums. Higher costs should not be shifted to those who play by the rules.
Note: Just the fact of getting older is not a lifestyle choice. Everyone gets older whether they like it or not.
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I absolutely agree. If I learned that, without any question, that ANY refined sugar was the cause of dementia (as an example), I would give it up in a NY minute. Those who couldn't give it up, should pay more for their medical insurance. Its the same for other "choices" that we make. As Americans we are fortunate to have the freedoms to do many things. But with those freedoms comes extra self responsibility. In Michigan you can drive a motorcycle with or without a helmet. If you choose to ride without, you must prove that you have extra (catastropic) insurance. Seems fair doesn't it? How about jobs. Should people who choose not to have a job be afforded the same priviledges that people who have jobs? I really like to have a nice big, fat lobster once a month. But I worked hard all my life to put money away so that I could afford that treat. Should someone who spent every penny they ever had in their pocket be afforded the same treat? No, of course not. We all make choices, good or bad, and we all have to be responsible for those choices. I had 2 children because I could only afford 2. And this was before BCP's. I love children, I love my grandkids (and everyone elses too) but I was a responsible person and knew my limit. So, is it fair that I restrict myself but other people have as many as they choose?
Yes, I believe that self responsibility is one of our greatest faults in America.