[ClearCase_guy]

If you want it, you have to buy it yourself.

That's the way it always should have been. I think around WWII people started getting covered through their employer as a sort of "wage increase" and it was a mistake that led us to where we are today.

If Obama's plan collapses (and I think it will) we may have a chance to transition to individuals choosing plans from across the country. I'd love to see legislation which opens up additional choices rather than steers us into a rotten single payer plan.

[McGavin999]

No, actually it happend in the late 50’s to early 60’s. It was during the wage freeze (Nixon?). It was the only way the employers could give their employees something extra.

[funfan]

Your right they are called fringe beneifts and they are added to your compensation package. Starting in 2011 those so called benefits will have to be listed on your W-2 forms
and I am not talking what the liberals are calling “Cadillac Plans” any insurance benifts from your employers you will be taxed on. FUBO and the horse you rode in on

[McGavin999]

It would be great if we could buy our own. I’ve been paying into the “system” for 48 years and I think I’ve put in two claims (and they were minor stuff). Wish I had all that money back now.

[sionnsar]

"If you want it, you have to buy it yourself."
That's the way it always should have been. I think around WWII people started getting covered through their employer as a sort of "wage increase" and it was a mistake that led us to where we are today.

Quite correct. It was a way around wartime wage controls.