Because you can't even utter the words "Tort Reform"...

Dear President Obama,

I am sure you are not looking to me to give you accolades for your speech tonight. After much reflection, some of it gut-wrenching, I have condensed my emotions, thoughts, and feelings into a proposal. And, since you did promise to listen to "legitimate concerns," I figure I - as a citizen and not a formal "special interest group" - might have a shot. You said:

"...many in this chamber ... have long insisted that reforming our medical malpractice laws can help bring down the cost of health care. I don't believe malpractice reform is a silver bullet, but I have talked to enough doctors to know that defensive medicine may be contributing to unnecessary costs. So I am proposing that we move forward on a range of ideas about how to put patient safety first and let doctors focus on practicing medicine. I know that the Bush Administration considered authorizing demonstration projects in individual states to test these issues. It's a good idea, and I am directing my Secretary of Health and Human Services to move forward on this initiative today."

Here is my proposal:

I believe a reformation of health care is a multifaceted act, with no "silver bullet." I have talked to many doctors and small business owners to know that many things are contributing to unnecessary costs. So, I am proposing that we move forward on a range of ideas about how to put patient safety first and let doctors focus on practicing medicine. Please authorize demonstration projects on ANY facet of your proposed Health Care Reform in individual states to test these issues. I would recommend you direct your Secretary of Health and Human Services to more forward on such initiatives immediately. Once the demonstration projects have shown your three criteria (security/stability, insurance for the uninsured (who have proven to be legal citizens), and slow the growth of cost for all), and proven themselves to be self-sufficient and not cost taxpayers any additional money, then the projects may be put to individual bills for vote by the representatives of the American People (a.k.a. Congress).

I believe my proposal is legitimate. I believe this will help you, Congress, and the American people take responsibility. I believe you can gain some good stories, decrease scare tactics, and not be concentrating on your own short term political points.

Constant vigilance, that's my motto!

Sincerely,
Mrs. Jones