I won't quote each poster, but just give an overview. You guys are giving specifics about yourselves, which you most likely aren't who I'm talking about.
Most people have a car payment, and if anything my $250 payment is low.
Cell phones, I will stand behind the majority of people having plans in the $100 range.
Cable: the only options are basic, around $40 a month or the $100 plan, in my area. VERY few people I know have basic cable.
As for cost of health insurance...I know it can vary from state to state, but when you talk about the $1000 for a family of three, you are most likely including what an employer pays. Out of pocket for decent plan here in NC, with 3 family members is around $450 thru BCBS.
I consider most of you posting to be fairly responsible budgeting your money....ie, no car payment....but my original point was that a huge percentage of those saying they can't afford healthcare are choosing to spend their money elsewhere. I stand by that.
I think a more affordable, and effective way to "overhaul" healthcare would be a more standardized cost system where dr's, hospitals and insurance companies are all held more accountable for why the cost is rising....also a key component is the insane cost of malpractice insurance for doc's.
