Health Reforms

* Re “Under Pressure, Health Plans Pledge Reforms,” July 19: If only those involved in the reform debate could visualize solutions through the eyes of both the health care professional and patient, we’d already have moved forward with implementation. Living with eight years of a disabling hydrocephalus condition and having been a former field professional, I can assure you the solutions are obtainable.

First, there would be more “clearly defined choices” of types of health policies, with associated pricing, just as one orders a new car or computer. Second, the industry would adopt standardized layperson criteria for medical intervention, testing, etc. that can be used by the physician to authorize health services for an illness or injury. Software programs and chart-style forms can report the “real time” symptoms and data to the physician. It would then become part of the formal record, and not subject to challenge by an insurance company. Third, the government would continue subsidizing health care, to include prescriptions or other very burdensome medical services, where data can support their benefits.

STEPHEN DOLLE

Newport Beach