TO THE EDITOR:
I appreciate that the recent article on health care coverage provides concrete details about health care reform — new health insurance options will be available on Oct. 1. But it’s also critical to reinforce why the UNC community should care.
I, along with thousands of other students, will graduate in May. Ideally, we would all immediately have jobs with stellar employer-based health coverage (with handsome salaries and six weeks’ vacation). I’m hopeful this will happen — but I’d like to be prepared if it doesn’t.
The new health insurance marketplace will offer security, flexibility and affordability. People will be able to compare plans side by side and choose one that fits their needs and budget. They can pick a plan online, and the majority of young adults will qualify for subsidies.
Health insurance is not just for the ill, the elderly or “real adults.” Even if you’re young and healthy, you too are fallible. Without quality coverage, any of us could be one accident or health scare away from bankrupting our families or our futures.
I urge you to visit www.getcoveredamerica.org and familiarize yourselves with your new health insurance options. On Oct. 1, you’ll have a new opportunity to protect your health. Seize it.
Jaya Mathur
Graduate student
Journalism
