Mr. Biden proposed significant health care reform on assuming the Presidency, supported by some stakeholders, opposed by others. This debate suffers a lack of American principles. Individual freedom stands on authority over self. Individual rights require responsibility for self. These truths, self-evident, beget several principles guiding any proposed health care reform.
First, cost control occurs only when the consumer pays. Transferring this responsibility also transfers authority to others with differing self-interests. Any efficient market of health care services must impress the costs upon the consumer. Minimally, employer mandates can list premiums paid for insurance as a deduction from income on a worker's paycheck. At best, payment for health care services attach to the consumer, not their job. Only this principle assures portability, continuity, and coverage of an individual's desires and needs.
Second, costs decrease and quality increases when "distance" between buying and…
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