I have been watching the latest rash of political commercials on how to reform health care, and have to take issue with one of the centerpieces of the Bush platform. The latest commercial proposes to have small business operators be able to join together to get “lower rates” that are available to larger groups. That sounds just wonderful, but, in truth, it is way off target.

As the widow of a state employee, I am able to buy health insurance from one of the largest groups in the state. For a single policy, I pay close to $600 per month. In the 10 years since my husband’s death, premiums have steeply gone up every time a new contract is negotiated.

In fact, it seems that my experience is not uncommon: Health insurance rates have risen at four times the rate of wages. I am one of the lucky ones who has prescription insurance, but I can’t afford to retire anytime soon and have any hope of paying for medications.

As a clinical social worker, I have seen a steady rise in the number of clients who have no health insurance because they just can’t afford it. Many more are classified part-time or temporary so that the employer won’t have to offer benefits. Their medical care is going to the emergency room when things get unbearable.

There are no easy answers to this problem: This proposal is a small Band-Aid to treat a massive injury.

Carolyn Bloom, Auburn

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