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Work to affect impending health care change
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Newton’s third law of motion states that “every action has an equal and opposite reaction.” While Newton’s laws of motion were conceived to explain certain physical behaviors, they are often mimicked in human behavior. Perhaps this is no better exemplified than in the world of politics.
As I write this editorial, we are in the midst of yet another hotly contested presidential campaign. While our two candidates espouse vastly different political philosophies, each promises a “better and brighter America.” Neither offers a great deal of detail regarding how this promise will be kept, but there is a common theme resonating from each camp. It is the theme of change.
Candidates promise change
Both candidates promise a shift from the status quo and a fresh approach to government. Who isn’t for change, especially given the status quo? However, while change seems pretty appealing right now, we must remember that politics – like everything else – is subject to Newton’s third law. Yes, every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
Take health care, for example. It is safe to say that all stakeholders – patients, providers, employers, insurers and government – realize our health care system could be improved by change. While we all share a common goal of delivering exceptional health care, we also recognize the inefficiencies, inaccuracies and excesses in our current model. It comes as no surprise that our candidates are promising a better health care delivery system, one in which every American benefits from comprehensive, cost-effective care. The question, of course, is how?
Will we mandate patients to be more accountable for their dietary, lifestyle and compliance choices? Will we expect health insurers to “tighten their belts,” thereby providing more efficient administrative services for a smaller percentage of the health care dollar? Will we ask for government concessions by paring back Medicaid and Medicare spending? Will we expect health care providers to bear the brunt of lower reimbursements?
While there is no easy answer, one thing is for sure: any action will have an equal and opposite reaction, and that reaction will not necessarily be fair.
Need for representation
I firmly believe optometry will do its share for health care reform. However, we cannot be so naïve as to assume reform will be fair and equitable. We must have active representation, for without it, our scope of practice, access to provider panels, professional parity and competitive reimbursements are at risk.
It is for precisely this reason that the American Optometric Association is so critical. The AOA serves as our eyes, ears and voice in state and national legislative arenas. However, the AOA cannot function without our support and participation.
With all the talk of change these days, there is no better time for us to get involved. If you are not an AOA member, it is the perfect time to join. Already a member? Offer your time or resources. Only in this fashion can we be assured that this inevitable change will be positive for optometry, our practices and our patients.