The reality of rationing

From the L.A. Times...

There are limits on care now, and no reform will change that. But that's not an excuse to do nothing.

Opponents of the main Democratic proposals for healthcare reform warn that consumers would be stopped from getting the care they need when they need it. President Obama's plan is "rationing," one political strategist blogged. It's an unrealistic criticism, yet policymakers shouldn't sugarcoat reality: Rationing is part of the healthcare system today, as it will be under any overhaul fashioned by Washington. That's no argument for sticking with the current approach, however. Without significant improvements in the way healthcare is delivered and paid for, the escalating costs will cut off more people from the care they need.

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