Our Mission Statement

League of Women Voters,
a nonpartisan
political organization,
encourages the informed
and active participation
of citizens in government,
works to increase
understanding of
major public policy issues,
and influences public policy
through
education and advocacy.

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Letter of Support for Healthcare Reform

As concerned citizens and Co-presidents of the League of Women Voters of Oklahoma, we are writing to express support for health care reform.

There are many reasons Oklahomans would benefit from health care reform. For example, Oklahoma businesses and families shoulder a hidden health tax of roughly $1,900 per year on premiums as a direct result of subsidizing the costs of the uninsured.

Our nation faces a health care crisis with skyrocketing costs and an insurance system that leaves many without coverage or unable to get treatment even when covered. According to a study reported in The New England Journal of
Medicine, 70 percent of Americans surveyed believe the health care system needs major changes, if not a complete overhaul.

Health care reform legislation must guarantee quality, affordable health care to all U.S. residents and health care coverage that includes the choice of a quality, affordable public insurance plan. In addition, it is essential that
comparative data on treatments, benefits packages and medical outcomes be made publicly available so that individuals can make informed health decisions.

The current system endangers both our economy and our health. As a nation, we spend $1 out of every $6 we earn on health care. Legislation must provide effective cost controls, equitable distribution of services and allow for
efficient and economical delivery of care.

Achieving this kind of comprehensive, system-wide reform will take a shared effort by citizens and Congress. I ask Senators Inhofe and Coburn and Representatives Sullivan, Boren, Lucas, Fallin, and Cole to support real health care reform.

LWVOK Co-Presidents,

Deborah Langley and Jacqueline Achong