Pray for universal health care

CHICAGO (UMNS) — There is a health-care crisis in the United States, and many people are still suffering while health care is being debated.

Clark

Millions of people in the United States have no health insurance. And, a growing number of people, including children with disabilities and pre-existing conditions, are being denied health care by the insurance industry.

As Christians, we need to think globally and act locally. We must continue to urge our congressional representatives and senators to speak out on behalf of health care.

There is a need to transform to a health-care program at the most affordable cost and provide for those who cannot afford to see a doctor, get a physical exam, get the necessary blood work, testing and screening they need, including mammograms, pap smears, x-rays, blood pressure screening, diabetic testing and other exams.

Patients should be provided with information they can understand. Time should be spent with them explaining this information so they can make solid decisions about their own health care, based on quality and price.

Seniors are at a disadvantage when it comes to out-of-pocket costs. There is a lot of pressure when you have to decide whether you should buy a loaf of bread or fill your prescription for blood pressure medicine, and you need both.

We must set aside special prayer time to remember those without basic health care.

People are dying at a higher rate every day because they cannot see the doctor or get emergency treatment. It hurts when you think about this and see it happening on a daily basis.

Our United Methodist Social Principles and Book of Discipline speak to the right to health care:

Health is a condition of physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being. John 10:10b says, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” … We believe it is a governmental responsibility to provide all citizens with health care.

We must set aside special prayer time to remember those without basic health care and for our elected leaders as they continue to debate on health care reform.

It is time for us as a faith community and individuals to re-examine our vision and mission. It is the church's belief that healthy persons are the first step in achieving healthy families, and healthy families, in turn, form the basis of healthy communities. People are more likely to be healthy if they are empowered to access and take care of their own health needs.

With health care for everyone, this can be accomplished.

Editor’s note: Irma Clark is a member of St. James United Methodist Church in Chicago. She is a registered nurse active in United Methodist Women.