"Too many minds, one mind."

The one thing that I've learned and have been influenced by our class in thinking is that health care is a right. Initially, I had a difficult time understanding this idea, but looking at various health care systems around the world showed me that most countries think the same way, therefore providing universal coverage.

In Israel's case, I find it interesting that prior to the National Health Insurance law in 1995, 96% of the population was already covered by one of the four "sick funds." The article states that this was possible because of graduated membership fees, which were "founded on need, not on the ability to pay," and also the employers health tax. What was so wrong with this program that they instituted a new law? Was this for the 4% uninsured?

Before the US jumps onto the universal coverage bandwagon, maybe we can apply the "founded on need, not ability to pay" concept. Health insurance fees based on income and family status, would make insurance in the states more varied, yet more affordable. But, then again, since our insurance market is so profit-driven, I really don't know what the insurance companies would feel about this.

The biggest difficulty with the US reform is the US mindset. In the movie, "The Last Samurai," there is a scene in the movie where Tom Cruise is learning to sword fight, but keeps losing to his opponent. A man in the audience approaches him and says, "too many minds, one mind." Then Tom Cruise thinks about the statement, then wins his first match. Similarly, the US is filled with too many minds and opinions. Before we make any reform, we must reunite.