Health care has become an increasing problem in this country and it must be taken seriously, yet reasonably as well. I would like nothing more than to see every American offered health care, but the idea of universalizing healthcare — as mentioned in Jill Johnson's Nov. 4 Viewpoint "Health care heralded as a right" — would be a grave mistake for our nation. Universal health care can only be done through a government-run institution and simply carries too high of a cost. With a coverage system where "the sky is the limit," a dramatic increase in costs is inevitable. To cover these costs the government would have to increase taxes on the individual taxpayer. It would also cost individuals within the health insurance industry their jobs.

For even more problems, just look at Canada's system. Some individuals must wait months for certain procedures, or are even forced to travel to America for treatment. European countries have commented on how their standards in the practice of medicine have declined. The standardization of physician's salaries causes highly qualified physicians to seek higher paying jobs in other industries. Still think universal healthcare is a good idea?

With such a system, citizens do not have the right to choose which doctor they wish to see. The government tells you where to go, which means you go to the cheapest one. Why would you expect such a system in America to be any different?

Also, almost every country that currently has universal healthcare is severely smaller than the United States both geographically and in population size. The unavoidable size and growth rate of America's population will make such a system even more difficult to manage than it already is in smaller countries. Focusing on a privatized system with tax credits available to those in need is a more reasonable approach to the issue. Also, allowing small businesses to group together under the coverage of a single health insurer will offer significant decreases in costs to individuals.

Overall, universal healthcare would make healthcare worse for the average American. Johnson mentions it will save you money, but who exactly will benefit financially? The majority of Americans will have increased taxes in exchange for a lower standard of healthcare. This may possibly free up a few bucks for you now as a student in debt, but when you're 40 you'll be paying for it through your nose. Think about it. In the long run, universal healthcare will slowly hinder the nation, individual by individual.

Rauch is a senior in the College of Business.

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