For Christmas, like all good snowbirds, we spent the holiday with family in Broward County, just north of Miami. It had been three years since I'd last been here, but it was fascinating to see the changes.
A large number of doctor's offices now publish the length of time Medicare patients need to wait before being able to see a physician. A physician in Pompano Beach proudly proclaims in advertisements, "only a 30 day wait for Medicare cardholders." As if a 30 day wait for medical care is something to be proud of.
Against this backdrop, there has been an explosion in the number of primary care retail clinics. On major streets, you can't go 10 blocks without passing one of the triage centers. If Medicare were such a great thing, you'd have to wonder why these places are sprouting like weeds and why doctors are rationing care to Medicare patients.
I'm lucky. I've done well in my life and I value my health. I don't rely on CMS and Medicare to provide for me. Yes, my private policy is expensive. But when I call up a doctor, I get right in, rather than the standard wait times for those with government healthcare. I understand it - the desire to abdicate all personal responsibility and let the government take care of me. But I'm not there yet. I want to live my life on my terms.
When I talk to the youth and their desire for "Medicare for All," they are dismayed when I say I don't want it or use it. The grass always looks greener on the other side - especially when it covers your grave. So I'll let them keep loving Medicare, I'll keep paying so I don't have to.
