HEALTHCARE

I've pledged to repeal Obamacare. As a Member of Congress I will fight to repeal it, defund it and work to see it overturned in the courts. I will work to enact common sense policy that will not burden future generations with debt or tax small businesses today.

In order to improve medical coverage in the United States, we must first make healthcare more affordable. The first step should be to require each state to pass tort reform that will end junk law suits. Out-of-control medical malpractice premiums are contributing to the rising cost of health care and forcing many physicians either to give up treating patients or to exit practice altogether, thus limiting patient access to medical treatment. Primary care physicians need protective legislation so that patients can receive high quality primary care without paying the premium prices to visit a specialist.

Second, we should enact legislation that promotes healthy lifestyles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, five preventable chronic diseases account for two-thirds of American deaths while 75% of total health expenditures are to address their treatment. Individuals who chose to live a healthy lifestyle deserve to be financially rewarded and we can do this by giving our small businesses the proper leverage they need.

Third, the American people desire healthcare portability. The American workforce is more mobile than ever. If you move from state to state and you like your current plan you should have the freedom to take your policy with you. On the other hand, Americans should be able to shop around and find a policy in a state that is affordable and fits their needs.

Finally, I am willing to work in a bi-partisan manner to pass legislation that will not deny individuals coverage due to preexisting health conditions. America has the best healthcare services in the world. We should pass legislation that ensures every American the chance to have affordable healthcare and the sanctity of quality coverage.

The individual, not the government, knows best whether his or her coverage and capacity needs are being met. As a member of Congress I will support legislation that allows all Americans to take healthcare delivery into their own hands and out of the hands of their employer and the government. I will work to ensure sensible healthcare policy is written and avoid the near catastrophes of healthcare policy debate in 2009.