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I wanted to write in support of “Reform starts with improving our health” (Opinion, Steve Case, Jan. 6). I couldn’t agree more with the writer, but suggest we take it a step further.

Instead of subsidizing unhealthy lifestyle choices by reducing the average cost of health care for all, I would suggest we have pay for performance. Health care premiums should be prorated based on the following factors: tobacco use, body mass index and vehicle/high-risk (i.e., sky diving) accident history.

Cost for treatments of highly preventable diseases, like some forms of diabetes, heart disease and lung cancer, should be based on history and ability to pay.

I am all about freedom of choice, but I don’t think I or others who choose to live a healthy lifestyle should have to pay for the destructive and unhealthy choices of others. If you really want to change behavior, show me the money.

Maj. Greg ErtelCamp Arifjan, Kuwait

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