Opinion ID: 1598423
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Medical Support.

Text: The original dissolution decree ordered that Brent maintain health insurance on the children and pay all medical and dental expenses not covered by insurance. At Brent's request the district court relieved him of the obligation to maintain insurance and required that he pay only one-half of the noncovered expenses. The district court believed it was time for Cynthia to share financial responsibility for the children on a more equitable basis while Brent attended school. The court of appeals disagreed and refused to modify Brent's obligation to obtain insurance and pay uncovered medical and dental expenses. We agree with the district court's determination of this issue. At this point neither parent is employed in a job that provides family health benefits. However, Brent shouldered this responsibility during the several years that Cynthia was in school. We think it is fair that Cynthia assume the same burden while Brent is in school. This resolution is consistent with the obligation of both parents to provide for the support and welfare of their children. See Iowa Code § 598.21(4) (1993). It is also consistent with the position that we have taken with respect to spousal support. See In re Marriage of Wegner, 434 N.W.2d 397, 399 (Iowa 1988). In this alimony case, we observed that both parties need to earn up to their potential in order to support themselves and not lean unduly on the other party. Id. We think the same principle applies here. Cynthia must use her earning capacity to support their children and not rely solely on Brent to do so. Therefore, we affirm the district court's decision on this issue, including the judgment entered against Brent for unpaid medical and dental expenses.