AS A JOURNALIST, I have to wonder what role the media may be playing lately in the heated health reform debate. Some of the headlines I've seen – even in major publications – have made me wonder if reporters might be forgetting how mighty the pen is.
For example, there’s the issue of non-profit health co-ops. This idea has come up again recently and was discussed seriously by the Senate Finance Committee because co-ops (groups of insured individuals run by non-profits) may be more palatable to those who oppose a government-run plan.
The Senate Finance Committee – the only committee yet to pass its version of health reform – is expected to return from recess and immediately face a storm of controversy, with opposition to a public plan the likely lightening rod.
News headlines during recess have included “Public health plan option may be dropped,” “Chances Dim for U.S. Public Health Plan” and “Key Feature of Obama Health Plan May Be Out: Administration Hints That Public Option Isn’t Only Way to Go.”
But here’s what was left out: Congress will vote on health reform, not the White House (though the White House does have some influence). Ad campaigns and grass roots efforts are underway by both sides right now. This will also factor in the outcome.
Two days after those headlines, the White House strongly opposed the stories, saying it never did imply a public plan option was out.
Senate Finance Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) has from the beginning said he isn't in favor of a public health option. Coincidentally, the Montana Standard reported in June that Baucus has received more money from health insurance and pharmaceutical companies than any other member of Congress.
Americans are on edge right now over the healthcare debate, so much so that a simple headline can contribute to misconception and mob mentality.
Headlines should focus only on the truth. Congress is still working on a health reform bill. It has a long way to go, and no one knows how it will all work out.