The time for healthcare reform is now, and the facts must be heard. Opponents of health insurance reform are taking their message across the country and spreading myths about what healthcare reform will mean for Americans. The AFT is initiating a series to get the facts straight on healthcare reform.

Here are the facts on one of the many myths being spread.

MYTH #1: Reform doesn’t affect people who already have health insurance.

THE FACTS: Reform affects all Americans who have ever worried about healthcare costs or about losing their coverage if they become too sick, lose their jobs or change jobs.

Every day, 14,000 Americans lose their health insurance. Further, one of the driving forces behind government deficits is the skyrocketing cost of Medicare and Medicaid. A public plan option will provide competition with the insurance industry to help keep costs down. If healthcare costs are not brought under control, there will be fewer resources for education and other important public services. In addition, out-of-pocket healthcare costs for every family will continue to climb.

Visit www.aft.org/fight4america to learn more about the AFT's position on health insurance reform and how you can be part of the action.

  AFT Local 943
  15521 South 70th Court
  Orland Park, Illinois 60462
  (708) 633-0943
  (708) 633-0944 (Fax)

  Kathy Setlak, president

  IFT Field Staff
  Tonia Havard-Dew                           Deneen Pajeau