In reference to "A lesson in health care" (letter, Aug. 20), [in which the writer was] appalled at the simple-minded Americans’ health care opinions: The writer needs to realize where his paychecks are coming from (being at Camp Liberty, Iraq).

As Canadian-born and American-raised, I can give the truth about this so-called fabulous federally funded health care system.

Call me a whiner, but waiting for nine hours in an emergency room with a broken ankle is more than just not being perfect, especially when you’re only 12 years old and you have a bunch of old ladies ahead of you [in line] because of some common cold and are there for lack of attention. But that’s what the word free is all about.

The salary cap the government puts on doctors [sends] most fleeing to the U.S. for better pay.

That’s what you get when it is "free," but you always pay for it in the end — a $10 pack of cigarettes, $4-a-gallon gas, $6 gallon of milk, etc.

The truth is, the American health system works when everybody does not rape it: the two major problems being illegal immigration and corporate greed.

"Obama care" will cripple this country, which was founded on freedom and independence.

P.S. I would rather put staples in my eyeballs than watch anything from Michael Moore [including the film "Sicko," as suggested by the letter writer].

Jason MillsCamp Liberty, Iraq

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