Transforming Health Care: Why Patient Perspectives Must Drive Reform Debates

Dear Editor,

Tom Sullivan makes a good point when he says it’s time to find common ground for health care reform in Vermont. However, he only mentions health care providers, regulators, insurance carriers, and the Legislature as key players. There’s a significant group missing from this list: the patients.

Patients are the ones who ultimately pay for the entire system through their taxes and insurance premiums. They also face rising out-of-pocket expenses. Yet, their voices often go unheard in these discussions. It’s crucial to include them in the conversation, considering they rely on this system for their health.

One way to achieve this is by holding open hearings on health care. These gatherings would allow everyone—patients, providers, insurers, and lawmakers—to share their views. Discussion is needed to shape a sustainable and quality health care system in Vermont.

Currently, there is an online petition urging the Legislature to host these open hearings. Adding your name shows that it’s vital for legislators to hear from patients.

Lee Russ

Bennington

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