We have access to among the best hospitals at either end of our Valley, top-notch cancer centers, orthopedic specialists and an out-patient surgical and care center right here in Basalt. But people - particularly those on Medicare or Medicaid, ineligible for credits, or not covered under employer policies - are struggling to find premiums to fit their oft-challenged budgets and are finding that high premiums only protect against catastrophic loss. Out-of-pocket costs will still dog them through the year.

While early methods of transferring risk in a monetary economy date back as far as 3rd millennia BC, health insurance only began to take root in the United States in the 1920s when people actually lived long enough to make it to their doctor or hospital and costs became a consideration.

The goal then was as it is now: to create a system of shared risk and a pool of funds for spontaneous coverage for each and every participant. Now nearly a century later, the issue and technical foundations have become sharply polarized and we find ourselves looking to Denver or DC for answers.

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Our Community  Needs Your Voice 5:30-7:00pm Basalt Middle School  51 School Street, Basalt Listen | Learn | Speak ~ Why was Colorado HealthOP shut down? ~ Why are premiums rising? ~ Truths, myths & the puzzle! ~ What's ahead for the Valley? ~ How to work together Meet & talk to Sen. Kerry Donovan, former Sen. Gail Schwartz, Division of Insurance top-level management, hospital executives and health insurance guides.

Whatever else you might have planned, please consider instead joining us tonight. It was a herculean effort to bring these esteemed people together in just two weeks. We need YOU to show them that you care, are willing to be involved and have a voice.