Skolnik: No, Mr. Rich – Low Cost Healthcare Does Not Lead To Lower Life Expectancy
“Rich: New Mexico From Bottom 10 To Top 10 In 10 Years.” (
All of us share Mr. Rich’s desire to see New Mexico improve its standing in health, education, and the economy. However, Mr. Rich’s suggestions about healthcare are certainly not a path for moving forward. Mr. Rich’s article noted:
“New Mexicans who enjoy nearly free healthcare have the lowest life expectancy. Yet our leaders want to expand free healthcare, to lower life expectancy for more people.”
Such comments reflect a profound ignorance of the determinants of health. They also suggest a lack of understanding of the place of health insurance in helping to enhance people’s health, while protecting them from financial hardship.