SOC 490, Week 6

            These past few weeks have really opened my eyes about Universal Health Care.  I have never taken a class that incorporated it before, so I am really grateful that I had the opportunity.  At first I had believed that Universal Health Care was a right, and then I doubted that by believing it was a privilege.  Now at the end of the course, I really am unsure of my viewpoint.  Each side contains so many supporting facts that I just do not know what to think!

            Last week we had the opportunity to go to a market and interview locals about their opinion on their health care system.  At first I was nervous because I can barely say a sentence in Italian, let alone have an entire conversation.  I was very picky at first trying to find someone to question, but eventually I gave in and just started going up to anyone.  After the first few, I actually began to enjoy myself.  It was very interesting seeing the feedback I had received and learned that even if you are not fluent in a particular language, it is not impossible to communicate with someone.

            At the end of Johnathon S. Ross’ article, he states, “America needs guaranteed, high-quality, affordable health insurance for all, with “everybody in and nobody out.”” As I stated, the first few weeks of class I truly believed this; however, now I am just not sure.  I still do believe that everyone does deserve some sort of health care, but after being here in Italy I am so thankful for the health care that the United States provides. 

            The last point in my blog will be about the notion of relationship between spirituality and illness.  Growing up I have been taught that this is true.  I have received countless cards and phone calls throughout my life saying, “keeping you in my prayers,” when someone in my family or I are ill.  I believe that the power of prayer truly does make a difference, regardless if someone is religious or not.