Now for the big question–healthcare! Not exactly a question, but it is on the minds of a lot of people, and was one of the “biggie” issues of the election.

As the inauguration nears, and the end of Bush approaches (thank the good Lord for small favors), what kind of policy will Barack Obama put forth? There is the battle cry for Universal Healthcare, while others are shaking in their boots at the very thought of anything so socialist (think Sarah Palin jabbering on about socialism, as though she has any comprehension of what the word means). Then again, many Americans would be happy to get something in the middle–affordable coverage that actually pays for something.

At least on forums, I’ve found that nurses have very divergent views on Universal healthcare, or on what kind of healthcare might work best. Obviously, nurses are not a generic group and their opinions have much to do with their own work environments, personal situations, and political views.

I haven’t heard anything concrete yet, but I’m sure the talking heads are buzzing. But curing healthcare woes is a massive undertaking, that includes everything from the astronomical cost of a medical education, bogus malpractice suits, extremely expensive new biotech drugs, and a worsening shortage of not only primary care practitioners but public health workers.

Barack, you’ve got your work cut out for you. Let me know if you need some help!

Photo courtesy of the National Library of Medicine