Need health plan for all that is funded by all

To the editor:

Will all the procrastination, concern and crocodile tears about Social Security, health care and prescription drugs, only one stern reality remains abundantly clear: Until Americans abandon their anti-government psychosis and assent to a system providing for all and funded by all to the extent of each one's capability, there will never be a reasonable resolution or peace in these matters.

I pay $8,000 a year for health insurance. I don't want a free ride. I simply want a universal program in which the same amount of money is administered through a single-payer government program available to all and funded by all.

I'm in my 80s. I'm still working (and glad to do it). I've been a Republican Party official and candidate for public office. I'm a supporter of Howard Dean for president.

GILBERT DEGENHARDT

Cape Girardeau