ata
2009-04-30 21:55:33
Here are a couple of topics related to healthcare and small business where we could really use your assistance and support.
dk
Last session SB 163 was introduced by Senator Joe Paskvan to increase the Fishermen’s Fund claim limit to $10,000. Originally set in 1959, the current limit of $2,500 is worth just $345 in today’s dollars. And we all know what it costs to go to the doctor these days!
The UFA Board requested this legislation and ATA and the other UFA groups worked to pass it this session. Unfortunately, that did not happen, but it’s still on the table for the 2010 legislature.
During port meetings this month, I got a huge amount of positive feedback for this legislation. Now I’m asking you to put that support in writing – now, before you go fishing – so that I have some solid facts to work with next session. Obviously, ATA and UFA would like to get SB 163 passed.
Please take a few moments to jot down your support for SB 163, and also describe any experiences you’ve had with the fund. For instance, were you denied adequate payment for a work-related injury, because of the cap? Or have you had a claim denied in total, for reasons that relate to the cap? Any specifics you can share, without picking on individual people, would be greatly appreciated. Your letter does not have to be long.
Our goal is simply to increase the maximum amount paid under the Fishermen’s Fund; we seek no other changes. If you agree, send signed letters addressed to Senator Paskvan and/or your SE Legislator to ATA and we’ll forward them:
ATA 130 Seward #205 Juneau, AK 99801 or FAX: 907-586-9400
On a related note, I could use some true life stories about your experience with access to healthcare here in Alaska, and/or the lack of affordable health insurance programs.
ATA has been working with other groups and small businesses on issues of healthcare access and insurance. There are some upcoming forums being hosted by the Obama Administration where we have an opportunity to provide input. Your help could be invaluable.
So, as above, please send me short letters describing what it’s like to get healthcare in your community (e.g. do you have to fly out to see a doctor – or to get emergency or patient care at a hospital?)
Write about any problems you might have getting affordable insurance – and what concerns you and your family have about that, particularly if you’re going without, or your plan is severely limited – say, you have expensive medications that aren’t covered.
I think it’s also fair to write about the cost, frustration, and risks of being under-insured with any programs you’ve been able to purchase.
What we know up here is that a range of healthcare providers are often far away from where we live and work. That’s the nature of the beast, and many of us do or have lived in situations where we welcomed the remoteness, so took the risks. But in general, policy folks need to understand that access to healthcare in Alaska is a different animal and demands a few different solutions. And, the fishing industry has had no luck securing group health insurance - that must change!
Having a sampling of real life stories to share with lawmakers could be very helpful, particularly since the current Administration seems committed to finding solutions to healthcare. Please help us help you.
Thanks!
Dale, ATA
130 Seward #205 Juneau, AK 99801 or FAX: 907-586-9400