Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

Goodness, I hope not! I'd like to think we're all capable of change. However, I do think that the idea of work-life balance is generational, and that older workers are more likely to make their life fit their work, as opposed to younger workers who seem to seek the opposite. Thanks for the comment!

What efforts are being made in terms of tackling what I believe is the core issue at hand - addressing obesity and poor lifestyle choices? Switching to a universal healthcare system, keeping the current system or a hybrid will do nothing to address costs until as a nation we change behaviors.

I am working with a local MD who runs a free clinic. He treats 6000+ patients a year for a total cost of $163,000 for staff salaries rent etc. He provides basic Dr visits, Rx, xray & lab and all but in hospital charges are covered. He has a very cost efficient way to cover the uninsureds. We are exploring...

I'm no expert or genius. I have only a few thoughts / ideas that might lead to some solutions.

Thanks for the comments, all. I agree with Jeff that lifestyle change (healthier eating and living, in addition to Anonymous's point about preventive care) is the key to changing the health care system from the bottom up. Not sure a sin tax is the answer, but at this point we're overdue for a little creativity!...

Great point! We are constantly reviewing data on the linkages between employer matching contributions and participation/ contribution levels, and the fact is that dropping the match is one of the least effective ways to cut costs.

401k debit cards are a bad idea, plain and simple. Let's hope that people will use this downturn in the economy to rethink their priorities and start saving (rather than spending) again.

A 50-60% subsidy would be great. I'd pay less than I do as an active employee. I don't think that's really what they want.

It is not the govt's. responsibility to insure we have the same type of coverage after employment is ended. There are other less expensive options available than the richer plans our employers provide for us.

I guess this is better than the auto industry, but Americans NEED the sticker shock of how out of control our healthcare costs are.