SOC 490, Week 1

                Even though I am not an avid follower of Universal Health Care, I do believe that it is a right rather than a privilege.  Helen Redmond, a Clinical Social Worker and a member of Chicago Single Prayer Action Network, stated “the cost of health insurance continues to outplace inflation and wage growth.”  People across America are continuously struggling with every day needs, and unfortunately health insurance is another problem that many Americans need to stress about. By providing Universal Health Care, many people would have an unnecessary weight lifted off of their shoulders.

                I understand why many people believe that Universal Health Care is a privilege rather than a right.  How can one deny a child health care for the regretful choices that their parents have made though? Many people make disappointing choices throughout their life that they should not have access to health care; however, there are just as many people that are trying to make a living and are truly struggling because of financial issues thanks to their health problems.

                Another point the Helen Redmond brings up is job lock.  Job lock is when an individual stays at an unpleasant job only to receive health insurance.  If America was truly one of the best countries in the world, people would not have to settle for something less than what they desire.  Universal Health Care should be provided to every citizen so they should not have to feel obligated to stay at an unwanted job.

                The last point that Helen Redmond made that I found interesting was that approximately twenty-nine million people have medical debt. If Universal Health Care had been provided, many people would not be struggling because of medical bills. Life would be less stressful for citizens across the United States, as well as other areas around the world that provide it.