Implementing some form of Universal Healthcare in the United States would be beneficial

-- First I would like address your statement that, "As humans we should be able to take care of ourselves, and not rely on others, to take care of us". However true this may be, some humans need assistance in taking care of themselves. It is not their fault that they have limited means, are handicap, etc. For those of working age and can work, universal healthcare would not be a "free ride" so to speak. They would pay into the system through taxes and in return receive healthcare provided by the government. They would NOT "rely on others" to take care of them. I never said free universal healthcare. As far as those who are not of working age ( well past the average retirement age and children) or people who can't work for whatever reason they too would be and should be entitled to healthcare whether they can afford it or not. There would be a sense of camaraderie. Citizens would pay taxes for healthcare to help themselves AND others because it is the right thing to do. -- As far as universal healthcare preventing ailments, I'm going to have to agree with what you said, but for the record, I did not say this in my opening argument. The statement I made was, "Universal healthcare in the United States would ENCOURAGE CITIZENS TO TAKE PREVENTATIVE MEASURES TOWARDS AILMENTS". I agree with my statement because if people had access to a healthcare system where there were no co-pays during doctor visits, no lab fees, and no monetary worries they would probably be more inclined to seek specialists for minor health concerns (like being overweight, depression, and smoking) that could lead to bigger more serious ones (like hypertension, diabetes, postpartum psychosis, and lung cancer). -- Having a national database would link hospitals across the country and enable them to access the patient's medical records quickly and efficiently (Messerli). There would be no need to fill out your entire medical history every time you move or visit a new doctor. All medical information would be kept in a computer database and updated by medical professionals (SiCKO). I think that eliminating all of the paperwork from medical history, patient update, and billing forms by incorporating universal healthcare would also be a major stride for the Green Movement. The federal government already keeps computer database of records, so this would be nothing new. For example, our past year's tax information, social security numbers, criminal databases, FAFSA, etc. We are an advanced technological society. Keeping a simple database of medical history would not be difficult I'm sure. As far as stealing information goes, if our other personal and private information is kept under lock and key like what I mentioned above, I don't see theft as an issue. I am going to assume that you agree with my other two points: 1. Universal healthcare would save our country trillions of dollars per capita on healthcare. 2. Universal healthcare would reduce mortality rates. Argument negated References: 1. Joe Messerli, BalancedPolitics.org , http://balancedpolitics.org... 2. SiCKO. Dir. Michael Moore. Dog Eat Dog Films, 2007.