And while we sit back and allow a few crony capitalists to 'eat our substance', we can take heart in knowing that the federal government, which has no money, will be providing the single payer option before too long. Certainly, as a result of 'preexisting conditions' Many insurers will be required to pay for things that only the government collects 'premiums' for.  Essentially, while insurers are in our pockets, the government is in theirs as well.  And then they THINK they are getting a good deal through a federal organization of exchanges where newly limited agency work will cost them less, but the euphoria will fade as the government says "Why do we force citizens to buy through a middle man?"

Irony.

Factory direct insurance. What a bargain. Medicaid is the new BCBS folks. And Michigan Senators are enabling the pathway to it. By creating a 'navigator' position are we not seeing them create the tools for the federal government to use?  If we deny the creation do we not force the feds to essentially stick their exchange idea where the sun shines least? How can they interface with Michigan's citizens? Without Michigan participating AT ALL, it PROTECTS us from the tax, and Obamacare itself.

As an aside, and speaking of BCBS, where is that $3 billion the state recently gave away?

We have options.  Our health care should be expanded through a more permissive state regulatory scheme, NOT by rolling into and under the Obamacare bus.  Here are a number of suggestions:

• Allow smaller insurers for in-state care
  
• Create an act that allows credit union like insurance pools where incentives for healthier living can save big $$$
  
• Regulate ala-cart plans. Want Arm-break insurance? $2 month as an example.
  
• Allow testing out of medical schools to increase number of providers increasing competitive health options
  
• Allow minor physical treatment to be performed by sub-licensing.
  
• DON'T tax items used for medicine
  
• Encourage small community 'corner' clinics with tax breaks for physicians who contribute time and services
  
• Limit liabilities that arise from NOT ordering unnecessary batteries of tests
  

This is just a start.

But Isolate away from ANYTHING coming from the federal bureaucracy. Isolate AWAY from those who stand to gain financially by pitting their financial benefit against our liberties. Demonstrate that Michigan CAN innovate and serve as an example of how free markets and free people solve such issues more reliably and efficiently.

Lead by stepping outside of the cage.