If you have easy access to your doctors and have consistently good insurance coverage, count yourself among the fortunate. Medicine is in flux; big business has invaded the profession and profits have become more important than patient care. Long waits on the phone, long waits to see the doctor, prior authorizations, cheaper meds rather than the best and many more cost saving interferences are the new norm.

There is hope on the horizon. The New York Health Act, a government-run program much like Medicare, will refocus on patient care as the main point. It is a bold plan that provides coverage for every New Yorker. It is being worked on by our legislators and a feasible budget has been formulated. Patient fees would be reasonable and scaled to your income. The plan is ready for implementation and requires getting more organizations on board. The boldness and size of the undertaking make it hard to digest. Several other states are working on a similar plan. Google New York Health Act to get more information.