Die In For Health Care Reform

Die In For Health Care Reform

St. Louis - SEIU members and community activists simulated a homicide investigation in front of the Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield building. With crime scene tape fluttering in the wind, 10 people simultaneously fell to the ground representing the 10 Missourians who die each week because they lack health insurance. Chalk outlined the bodies, while speakers October 6th die in

explained how WellPoint and its local subsidiary Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield are responsible for a majority of those deaths. WellPoint controls 68% of Missouri's health insurance market and their greed means Missourians die.
Oliver Pierce, executive board member of SEIU Local 1 MO division, said, "We need to level the playing field. We need a health care public option." Pierce reflected, in 1970, an entire family used to pay $14 a month for health insurance through their employer. Fortunately for him, Pierce has a public option through the Veterans Administration Hospital System. "The VA is all about controlling costs and providing quality service," he added.

WellPoint's premiums have skyrocketed over the years, while the quality of service has plummeted. According to documents obtained during a recent Congressional Investigation, one WellPoint official denied $10 million in policy claims. This official, and other insurance company employees, receive bonuses for refusing to pay the medical bills of thousands of people.

Private insurance companies are failing to control costs, provide full coverage, and insure the uninsured. Now is the time to act! Call Congress at 800-603-SEIU (7348) and tell them to pass the public insurance option. Then, call or email the SEIU MO/KS State council to see how you can help yourself and your union sisters and brothers win real health care reform NOW.