NewsOn6.com Flooded With Health Care Questions, Comments

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- After the votes were tallied, and the dust settled following a historic night in the House, the questions about health care reform began pouring in. Hundreds of comments quickly popped up on NewsOn6.com, many from people worried about how the bill will affect their Medicare coverage.

Diane in Ardmore writes: I am permanently disabled and rely on my Medicare to survive. I have a lot of medical problems and this bill scares me to death.

According to the non-partisan, non profit website FactCheck.org, the bill calls for a $500 billion reduction in spending on Medicare over the next ten years. Current Medicare benefits won't be slashed, but those who get their coverage through Medicare Advantage's private plans may see fewer benefits.

Another commenter writes: Congress has pushed through an awful government-run health care plan that We the People Oppose.

FactCheck.org points out that the "public option" was removed from the final bill, but there will be more government regulation of the insurance industry.

There are worries about keeping your current plan. 

Fedup says: So you have health insurance now. Enjoy it because pretty soon you will be paying more for that right.

The Congressional Budget office reports premiums for those who get their insurance through their employers should stay the same. But the average premiums for people who buy their own insurance is expected to increase by 10 to 13 percent. The government says federal subsidies will help offset those costs.

There were also a number of questions about requiring the uninsured to purchase insurance. That requirement will go into effect in 2014, and those who don't comply will have to pay a penalty. The government says it will help people with the lowest income pay for their insurance by expanding Medicaid.

3/22/2010  Related Story: Health Care Bill: Separating Fact from Fiction