On Thursday, yet another example of the ignorance that pervades the political sphere became apparent to me. In fact it came knocking upon my doorstep.
Indiana State University was "lucky" enough to get a visit from Sen. Hillary Clinton's senior health adviser, Andrea Palm. Ms. Palm is a New York native who served as legislative assistant under the late California representative Robert Matsui. She now advises Hillary on matters of national health.
And she does this without a single shred of experience in healthcare. During the Q&A session, my very first question asked, "What are your healthcare credentials?" And would you believe that her answer?
"Absolutely none."
What is Sen. Clinton thinking? Ms. Palm's assignment as health adviser seems to be nothing more than a doling out of advanced position to a "good 'ol gal" from New York. And judging from the political blabbermouthing and sweeping generalizations that Ms. Palm demonstrated during the Q&A, Hillary's health panel is in serious trouble. Luckily, she isn't being paid too much... here is her salary breakdown.
In my opinion, none of the audience's questions were answered satisfactorily. Ms. Palm spent her time talking around issues without addressing them forthright. I guess I shouldn't be surprised, what do I expect from what is obviously a "yes-woman".
But when taking a look at Obama's health adviser, credentials are obviously much more important to this young presidential candidate. In February there was a debate between Ms. Palm and Obama's adviser, Dr. Maxwell Bloche at Case Western U. I only wish I could have seen the fireworks this man (who possesses both an M.D. and a J.D.) threw at her insubstantial platform.
A note to Hillary: if you want to be an effective leader, surround yourself by people that will give you the straight story, not these nodding heads that do nothing but parrot your unfocused platform.
1 comment:
You know I really didn't want to go to that meeting, but our teacher thought it'd be a good idea. And besides, I had class in there right after anyways.
I agree that this crazy person did not answer anyone's questions. However, I'm kind of upset that some nursing people did not ask better questions. I think you med students did a good job of shaking her up, and I agree with what you guys asked and how it seemd like you stood on issues. Although I cannot tell the future, I assume some of you will end up working in your own office as a primary care physician. I think it's crap how much medical professionals pay for insurance. I'd hate to think you'd have to pay anymore money because how are you going to be able to afford to pay anyone to work for you, and still make money for yourself.
I think one issue that should've been asked/talked about was how are you going to get more students to pursue medical careers. College is expensive; even at a state school or tech school. And...it's not easy, no matter which path you choose. So, why not give students more money to pay for school or some other type of incentive. I think she mentioned something about after graduation helping pay back loans, but if you are savvy enough you can find a job that already does that.
I'm just not sure about the Obama or Clinton health care policies. I don't think I know enough about either plan. All I know is that my family has federal employee insurance, and they kicked me off when I turned 22 regardless of the fact that I am still in school full-time. That's always nice.
I think everyone should have health care, no doubt about that. But, at what cost?
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