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March 23, 2009

YOUNG VOICES

My Thoughts on Healthcare
by Sean Nixon


 

I recently read a story online about a group of individuals one reporter dubbed “Young Invincibles” the 18-29 year olds who don't get health insurance. The article made a lot of sense, and I agreed with certain aspects about the need for younger Americans to get healthcare.

However, I happen to fall within the age group of said population, and am by no means a “young invincible," just strapped for cash. The notion that young adults today are so lackadaisical that we don't care about our own lives is really comical.

Let's be honest for a moment. Healthcare was expensive before the economy went down, and it definitely hasn't gotten any cheaper. Think about it: back when millions of college students were getting by on health coverage provided by their parents, there was no need to worry about coverage.

Now, with job loss numbers on the rise and young adults reaching the age where they're no longer eligible on their parent's insurance, these so-called  "young invincibles" are stuck between a rock and a hard place.

So, I wouldn't say I was totally cavalier in my aspirations to receive healthcare. I just happen to realize, like the other 40-plus million Americans, the staggering cost of being insured. While young people are typically said to take too many chances and throw caution to the wind, I'm not the type of guy who enjoys the idea of playing with his life.

Furthermore, I wouldn't say that my generation is entirely carefree when it comes to healthcare. Instead, I‘d say we don't have a system that makes it affordable for people to get coverage, but that's my opinion.

So which is it? Are young people just indifferent when it comes to their health or are we just economically unable to purchase it?  

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