Current Issues

Companies are looking for ways to get out of paying for employee health care by shifting costs to workers. One way employers shift costs is through defined benefit plans. Health Savings Accounts are an example of a defined benefit plan – and the kind that many politicians –including President Bush- are talking about. They’re personal saving accounts into which employers pay a flat amount. The employees must put aside any additional health care money themselves. Experts say that most employers won’t contribute more than $500.00 to employee accounts. That is just not enough to cover a pregnancy or a child’s broken arm. Forget about catastrophic events like a heart attack or cancer. Real comprehensive insurance is still necessary for that kind of treatment.

Anti-working Family Candidate Claim	THE TRUTH
HSAs are “consumer driven plans” that beat the rising costs by allowing consumers to shop around and look for the best deal. HSAs mean that people buy only the insurance that they need.	Americans need comprehensive coverage. So-called “consumer-driven” plans like HSAs mean that workers will make health care decisions based on how much money is in their savings account. Perhaps a child’s earache has to wait till next month, or important preventive care gets put on hold. Millions of people won’t be able to afford coverage, or get care, at all.

The UFCW has participated in Citizens Health Care Working Group and through this group has been able to put out a road map for fixing the system. To read more go to www.ufcw4healthcare.org. Use this report to hold your own political accountable on health care.