I received an e-mail today from David Axelrod, Senior Adviser to the President, The White House [info@messages.whitehouse.gov] which says,

"P.S. We launched www.WhiteHouse.gov/realitycheck this week to knock down the rumors and lies that are floating around the internet. . . .

8 ways reform provides security and stability to those with or without coverage:

• Ends Discrimination for Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurance companies will be prohibited from refusing you coverage because of your medical history.
  
• Ends Exorbitant Out-of-Pocket Expenses, Deductibles or Co-Pays: Insurance companies will have to abide by yearly caps on how much they can charge for out-of-pocket expenses.
  
• Ends Cost-Sharing for Preventive Care: Insurance companies must fully cover, without charge, regular checkups and tests that help you prevent illness, such as mammograms or eye and foot exams for diabetics.
  
• Ends Dropping of Coverage for Seriously Ill: Insurance companies will be prohibited from dropping or watering down insurance coverage for those who become seriously ill.
  
• Ends Gender Discrimination: Insurance companies will be prohibited from charging you more because of your gender.
  
• Ends Annual or Lifetime Caps on Coverage: Insurance companies will be prevented from placing annual or lifetime caps on the coverage you receive.
  
• Extends Coverage for Young Adults: Children would continue to be eligible for family coverage through the age of 26.
  
• Guarantees Insurance Renewal: Insurance companies will be required to renew any policy as long as the policyholder pays their premium in full. Insurance companies won't be allowed to refuse renewal because someone became sick. "

Now, I don't see a single provision listed which is in any way aimed at controlling health care costs. They all extend coverage to someone, attempting to pander to someone's self interest.

But note, the administration is trying to change the discussion from "health care reform" to "health insurance reform", thinking that people may be more agreeable to "sticking it to the insurance companies".

Now, I am not saying that some of the changes mentioned might not be a good thing. All I am saying is that it is disingenuous to make this the thrust of health care reform to "keep from busting the budget" or to "revitalize small business" as the administration claims.

Comments?