The leading cause in bankruptcy in the United States is unpaid medical bills.

Millions of us go without insurance because we can’t afford it, and many more of us fall into debt when something big happens; constantly pursued by debt collection agencies. Children without insurance are less likely to receive medical attention for serious injuries, recurring ear infections or for asthma. The death rate in any given year for someone without health insurance is twenty five per cent higher than someone with it.

Why can’t we find a fix? Why does every politician that attempts to provide a solution get shot down or offer something that sounds way too much like they don’t want to piss of the politico-pocket-lining insurance companies?

Zocalo has invited former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle to explain why the health care crisis is so persistant and to give an insider’s view on the situation.

For any of you who have attended a Zocalo lecture, you will agree with me on the excellence of the forum. The crowd is small and the speaker right there in your face just waiting to answer your questions.

This forum fills up fast so RVSP now - you have no excuse, it’s free.

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