Health care a 'complicated' issueILLEGAL IMMIGRATION: CLOSING THE GATES By Jill Coley (Contact)
The Post and Courier
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Alan Hawes Angelica Ventura Gonzalez, an uninsured illegal immigrant, has a stack of bills from her son's birth and said she doesn't know if Medicaid will pay them. 
Alan Hawes Ana-Cecilia de Marquez, an uninsured illegal immigrant, suffers from painful, noncancerous fibroid tumors in her womb. Read all the storiesAbout this series:In an occasional series, The Post and Courier has been exploring the potential consequences of illegal immigration on people in business, law enforcement, health and education. Ana-Cecilia de Marquez, 43, rubs her belly when she talks. The illegal immigrant has bothersome and sometimes painful symptoms that require her to stay close to her Goose Creek mobile home. "It's ... like I'm going to deliver a baby," de Marquez said. "It feels like a wound inside." De Marquez, who moved from El Salvador to the United States three years ago, is uninsured. She said she has been bounced around the health care system for two years, unable to get her symptoms under control. "So what?" say some opponents of illegal immigration, who don't think undocumented people should be able to receive health care at public expense. Russ Henderson, a U.S. citizen and retired military man, lives in neighboring Ladson and is outspoken on the issue. "Every time an illegal uses services the American people pay for, they are stealing," he said. "Go back and let your government take care of you." Henderson is not alone. Illegal immigration was second only to the economy in the top four issues that matter most among South Carolina Republicans surveyed in primary exit polls. State legislators responded and passed the Illegal Immigration Reform Act, which became law in June. The law, among other measures, bans any state-funded, non-emergency medical care for adult undocumented immigrants. Exceptions are made for immunizations, prenatal care and communicable diseases. Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell, who championed the reform, said, "There's no reason taxpayers should foot the bill for illegals. It's flat wrong. We're having trouble keeping up with those already here. Adding the burden of those not contributing to the system is unfair." Jack Feussner, chairman of Medical University of South Carolina's Department of Medicine, said he can understand why legislators want to make resources for legal residents a priority. "But it's much more complicated than that," he said. MUSC, which receives 6.4 percent of its operational budget from the state, is reviewing the legislation to identify issues and figure out how to comply. MUSC, like nearly all hospitals, accepts Medicaid funds, which are a combination of state and federal money. For every dollar the state sets aside for Medicaid, the federal government provides $3. That means the hospital is caught between the new state law and federal law, which also mandates that people must be treated without discrimination. Any test for legal residency must be applied to everyone. Here's one way the laws could conflict: An illegal immigrant shows up at a hospital clinic, which is bound by federal law regarding emergencies and discrimination. The immigrant doesn't speak English. Before an interpreter is brought in to help interview the immigrant about his condition, which might constitute an emergency, should that patient's legal status be screened? Another problem with implementing the law is separating federal and state. More than 130 clinics, both hospital- and physician-based, are affiliated with MUSC. Separating the funding streams to insure that no state funds go to illegal immigrants is complicated and might be impossible for an organization of MUSC's size. For that reason, Tammy Besherse, staff attorney with S.C. Appleseed Legal Justice Center, a low-income advocacy group, is skeptical that the law will have any effect. "I don't know of any place that only gets state money," Besherse said. What will the law change? To avoid a direct conflict with the federal law requiring emergency care, regardless of immigration status, legislators targeted a limited health care scenario with their bill. It prohibits illegal immigrant adults from seeking care in a state-funded facility for non-life-threatening and noncommunicable ailments. De Marquez fits the bill. Her womb is filled with lime-size fibroid tumors. Common in premenopausal women, the noncancerous tumors often are symptomless, but they can sometimes be painful and bleed. De Marquez also suffers from diverticulitis, a digestive condition that also can cause abdominal pain. Neither condition is immediately life-threatening for her, so if de Marquez visits a clinic that receives state funds, she could be turned away, according to the law. Clinics that rely on membership dues, donations and federal grants are not affected by the law, but they are few and have limited resources. It's still unclear how the law will be enforced. It requires any adult seeking medical care at a clinic or hospital that receives state funds to assert in an affidavit that he is lawfully present in the U.S. It does not ask for proof of citizenship. The affidavit will be accepted as proof of citizenship until status is verified through the Systematic Alien Verification Entitlement program operated by the Department of Homeland Security. No agency is charged with enforcing the prohibition against state-funded care, Lynn Bailey, a Columbia-based health care consultant, pointed out. "It's a piece of feel-good legislation that's absolutely impossible to administer," she said. Andres Arias, an Orangeburg internist who also runs a North Charleston clinic four days a week, said a misconception exists that immigrants are using up resources at ambulatory clinics, the primary target of the legislation. Undocumented adults would rather go to private clinics and pay up front, he said, rather than leave a paper trail of bills. Patients visit him from as far away as Georgetown and Myrtle Beach. One man comes from Virginia, he said. Even before the law passed, not having insurance was a roadblock to receiving comprehensive care. Most insured adults with de Marquez's conditions would be treated in a doctor's office. But without insurance, de Marquez is unable to afford to go to a doctor. When her symptoms become crippling, she goes to the emergency room, which under federal law must stabilize her. But emergency physicians treat only her current symptoms, rather than perform diagnostic tests necessary to determine why her conditions are disabling. De Marquez always gets billed for her treatment, and invoices are piling up. Unable to work because of pain, she can't pay, she said. Hospitals have long felt the pinch of treating uninsured patients. Most facilities ask patients to pay up front for non-emergency and elective procedures. Officials at the Medical University of South Carolina, Trident Health System, Roper St. Francis Healthcare and East Cooper Regional Medical Center confirmed that they ask for payment up front, sometimes at discounted rates if patients do not qualify for charity care. The move is necessary to remain financially solvent, officials said. In fiscal 2006, state hospitals reported they delivered more than $500 million in uncompensated care. How much is attributed to illegal immigrants is unknown, since health-care providers do not record patients' legal status. Based on other data, the S.C. Hospital Association estimated that in 2006 there were 27,000 discharges of uninsured non-citizens. That's not necessarily illegal immigrants, said Rozalynn Goodwin, director of policy research for the association. The term "uninsured non-citizens" encompasses legal permanent residents and holders of temporary visas, as well as illegal immigrants. South Carolina hospitals charged uninsured non-citizens about $117 million, including $59 million in emergency room charges, according to the association. Patients paid for an undetermined amount of those charges, Goodwin said. Fear In the end, whether the law has teeth or not might be irrelevant. Fear may reduce the number of illegal immigrants seeking health care. Arias, the Orangeburg internist, said there is fear in the Latino community about going anywhere they have to identify themselves. "The perception that things are going to change makes people really nervous," said Arias, whose North Charleston patients are almost all Latino. One of his patients, Delfino, is an undocumented laborer who did not want to disclose his full name. He suffered a puncture wound when a cement mixer collapsed on his leg. Delfino said his boss did not take him to a doctor but instructed him to pour gasoline on the gash. He did not seek medical help for fear of being deported, until a week later, when his ankle swelled to three times its normal size. After extensive hospital treatment, he owed $3,600, which he pays off in $100 weekly installments. The law actually might end up costing the health care system more money if many illegal immigrants, like Delfino, wait to seek medical care until a little problem becomes a big one. "This is going to be complicated to say the least," MUSC's Feussner said. Illegal immigrants and health care Q: Do illegal immigrants burden public health insurance? A: Medicaid is a national health insurance program for low-income adults and children and disabled citizens. Illegal immigrants are not eligible, except for emergency services, including childbirth. From November 2006 to November 2007, 5,731 people in South Carolina were denied because they could not prove citizenship, said Jeff Stensland, spokesman for the state's Medicaid agency. The state paid $14.5 million in emergency Medicaid for 3,638 illegal immigrants during fiscal 2007. That includes emergency services for inmates, but most went for services to undocumented people, Stensland said. Medicare, which provides health coverage for citizens 65 and older, does not cover illegal immigrants. Q: Do illegal immigrants consume many health care resources? A: There is no way to know, because health-care providers do not usually ask patients their status. Those on the front lines of health care say undocumented adults rarely seek treatment for themselves, unless it's an emergency. They are far more likely to seek care for their children, many of whom are U.S. citizens and hence entitled to Medicaid if their family's income is low enough. By far, the larger problem for the health care system is uninsured patients, said Rozalynn Goodwin, director of policy research for S.C. Hospital Association. About 800,000 South Carolinians are estimated to be uninsured. South Carolina's illegal immigrant population, which is largely uninsured, is estimated at 55,000 to 75,000. Q: Why don't illegal immigrants pay for health care? A: Anecdotal evidence suggests that this notion is unfounded. Jason Roberson, head of MUSC interpreter services, said people often ask, "Where do I pay?" It might take an illegal immigrant several years to pay for costly procedures. Those who cannot pay are treated the same as all uninsured. If they do not qualify for emergency Medicaid, hospitals either tap charitable resources, write off their care as bad debt (which drives up costs for insured patients) or refuse to provide elective procedures. Q: Do illegal immigrants qualify for Medicaid by having a baby? A: Undocumented pregnant women are eligible only for emergency Medicaid to cover delivery and complications. Babies born in the U.S. are citizens. Once born, the child may qualify for Medicaid, depending on his parents' income. But having their child qualify does not entitle parents. Reach Jill Coley at 937-5719 or jcoley@postandcourier.com. |
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Comments
This article has 138 comment(s)
Posted by Brittanicus on June 29, 2008 at 1:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Here is a few eye-openers for those who think it is okay, for taxpayers to be burden with the millions of illegal aliens squatting in America. Be sure to read the disturbing costs, for illegals bedridden in the hospitals. Remember Americans have to produce Social Security numbers, ID's and insurance, even before they are looked at. Whereas, illegal aliens can go to emergency for a cold, ear ache or gall bladder surgery---ALL FREE!
YOU PAY FOR IT...not the pariah employer!
Here some traumatic facts the ultra-liberal, big business, the church, special interest lobby and radical extremists try to keep secret from the American people. This is not about legal Hispanics who entered America through the front door, but about people who ignored our sovereignty laws and stole into our nation. Must taxpayers be forever support parasite businesses who exploit foreign nationals? Is America condemned to keep on welcoming millions more of poverty, uneducated third world aliens. Are we going to remain burdened with traffic gridlock, access to free health care, free education and cities, communities, neighborhoods compounding pollution and rising crime rate. Border states were under tremendous pressure, with sinking economies until Arizona passed legislation to finally stop pariah businesses, and an overpopulation of illegal immigrants.
Today Arizona is doing better, since they start enforcing immigration restrictions. You can open your eyes here: (www.mensnewsdaily.com/2008/05/15/strikin... )
Read about costs the US government keeps under wraps.
This doesn't include education, free health care or prison services and much more not listed. Find that disturbing report here (www.eagleforum.org/sources).
Read about one committees free health care research. (www.townhall.com/columnists/AmandaCarpen... )
Then go here to fight back:
www.numbersusa.com
Call your local Democratic representaive and demand the federal SAVE ACT (H.R.4088) Without jobs, illegal aliens will leave.
Posted by mikell96 on June 29, 2008 at 1:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Am I missing something here? I am married with two (2) children. My wife and I are both employed. We are paying for our health insurance and people who are illegal get health care on my dime. We have to jump through hoops for Blue Cross to pay claims and all "they" need to do is show up for "free" medical? Two kids to the dentist just last week –with insurance—cost $ 125.00 for a regular check up!
I hate that it has become an "us" vs. "them" issue, however, as a citizen and tax payer I do not support free medical for individuals whom by LAW should not be in America.
Now, the P&C runs an article with names (if it is their real name) and photos. Are we going to see these same individuals at local doctor offices in the next few weeks getting more free care?
ICE should find them by sundown, breakfast should be at the county jail and their butts on a federal grey goose bus to the boarder by Wednesday noon (just enough time to reposition the transportation and armed personnel).
Do I hate immigrants? No, not at all. My wife and my in-laws are Immigrants. They came to America in 1978 as LEGAL immigrants . As educators they ensured their three children were college educated, professionals and productive members of this country.
Have I a problem with immigrants? No not at all. Just illegal immigrants and the many free rides they get that so many hard working Americans cannot afford. "The state paid $14.5 million in emergency Medicaid for 3,638 illegal immigrants during fiscal 2007."
Dare I mention our Veterans and their health care needs…….
Posted by Creeker01 on June 29, 2008 at 3:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sorry she's in pain and all, but she should be back home letting her own Government take care of her rather than us stupido Gringoes.
Anybody else think its rather ironic that the Border Patrol is in Training at the Weapons Station and right outside of the gates and on down to Ashley Phosphate is pretty much our local "Li'l Mehiko"?
I say its time for them to do a little hands on Training...
Posted by proudamerican831 on June 29, 2008 at 4:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I live in California, my town has 95 percent mexican. I have seen these people for years having babies here and staying here because the baby is American. That law has to be changed.
Send them back to where they came from.
They are draining every bit they can from our system and wont give back.
Poverty, crime, gangs, a way of life for them. I hope it is not too late to sae America.
Posted by vtsusa on June 29, 2008 at 5:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Q: Do illegal immigrants consume many health care resources?
A: There is no way to know, because health-care providers do not usually ask patients their status.
Those on the front lines of health care say undocumented adults rarely seek treatment for themselves, unless it's an emergency. They are far more likely to seek care for their children, many of whom are U.S. citizens and hence entitled to Medicaid if their family's income is low enough.
This is patently untrue! I have worked in the healthcare field both here and in Arizona and the ERs in Arizona were constantly filled with illegals asking to be seen for colds, flu and many other non-life threatening illnesses causing the wait time to average about 4 hours before being seen. As for the cost for these visits, the hospital would write off millions of dollars a year in unpaid debt due to the illegals.
No way to count the cost my but!
And as for South Carolina if they want to sweep up some illegals all they have to do is visit the Bank of America on St. James in Goose Creek on a Friday around 5 p.m.!
Posted by BKLYNIRISH on June 29, 2008 at 6:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Haven't we enough "drains on the taxpayer" among our own citizens without the burden of somebody elses?
"'So what?' say some opponents of illegal immigration, who don't think undocumented people should be able to receive health care at public expense."
Sums it up nicely. Sorry about your ailments, but it's time for you to go back to your home.
Posted by amberjack2362 on June 29, 2008 at 6:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Send INS over and send them all back to where they came form. I want to see my tax dollars at work instead of being wasted
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 7:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
ask california how bad they tax the medical system, and how many of OUR hard earned dollars they use up ILLEGALLY
there they are with pictures and all, Sheriff please go pick these people up and have ICE deport them immediately if not sooner
again, they are ILLEGAL.... if I do something ILLEGAL I have to pay the consequences so what's different here??
go back to mexico and come back the legal way if you want to be here
it wasn't too long ago, a year or so, that they were burning our flags and trying to say they were going to take this country over because they still think it's theirs etc etc etc all over in the streets of california
when it dawned on them that all that did was piss us off more they settled back down and tried to pretend they were joking and really didn't mean it
send them all back now
Posted by drdcrimj on June 29, 2008 at 7:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
So, the solution is simple. Take them back to the border and send them home. The longer we continue to tolerate this illegal and unrealistic burden on our society, the sooner our country will become the third world society they came from. Remember when you vote that Obama wants middle class Americans (black & white) to provide total medical care for all these criminals.
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 7:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
ok John you and all your liberal friends pay for it and show us just how compassionate you are, but don't ask the rest of us to pay for your illegal cause
put your money where your mouth is and when your own family can't get medical help because the ER is too full of illegals trying to get free cold medicine you should just sit back and smile at how well things are working out
Posted by wonderdog on June 29, 2008 at 7:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe the "Damn Liberals" should pay for it then (with their own money instead of the tax payers'). The rest of us are tapped out.
Posted by ForPnC on June 29, 2008 at 7:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm taxed half to death to help support these welfare cases. They are nothing more than a drain on society. Fire the management at the INS because they're apparently lazy and inept. Get rid of illegals now!
Posted by Riptide on June 29, 2008 at 7:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I hate the break the news to you all but the media, McCain, Obama and essentially the ruling elite have nothing but contempt for the average American worker in this country. I heard on the news that McCain and Obama are pandering to the Hispanic vote and that vote will determine the outcome of the election. You may have some tight election laws in South Carolina but in other states they are as loose as a goose. As a matter of fact the voting ballots are in Spanish to make it easier for them to select for the candidate of their choice… like... does it really matter? No English need to apply, work or vote. If you haven’t read George Orwell’s Animal Farm I would highly recommend to pick up a copy. You might find copies at the local ACLU office since they’re advocates of this kind of society.
I find it kind of strange that a year ago the illegal aliens was the number one issue in this country and now we have 2 candidates for the presidency that WERE and ARE favor of amnesty for illegal aliens. The liberals, the ruling elite, and the media have nothing but contempt for the average Americans that have to work and pay the bills. This is enough to make a skunk vomit.
Posted by wonderdog on June 29, 2008 at 7:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I fault ALL the politicians who are too PC to do something about the drain of illegals on society. We have enough problems with the locals.
Johnq, why don't you implore Mexico to be more caring and compassionate toward its citizens? Your criticism toward the US is misdirected.
Posted by wonderdog on June 29, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I would have voted for the democrats, but their last two candidates were Al Gore and John Kerry. I held my nose and voted for Bush and would do the same again, given those choices. Yikes.
Posted by 1963 on June 29, 2008 at 7:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
We cannot support the rest of the world. We have our own problems that never seem to get solved. The USA can only take so much on its shoulders before collapsing itself.
Posted by nurse7798 on June 29, 2008 at 7:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I can't even get insurance and I am an American. The coverage I can get is too costly, and my spouse has a brain tumor so he has a "pre existing" condition. We couldn't afford the COBRA payments over 1000 a month when he had to have surgery and lost his job...... why do these illegals have the right to be covered and not red blooded American tax payers ???????? Send 'em ALL back.....
Posted by BKLYNIRISH on June 29, 2008 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Posted by The_Mouth_of_the_South on June 29, 2008 at 7:59 a.m.
tripsa:
Just for the record, Catholics are NOT Christians. The Catholic Church is the worlds largest cult."
Wow...as much as I'd love to respond to that, the matter at hand is criminals such as Ana-Cecilia de Marquez draining American resouces.
Posted by pirate42 on June 29, 2008 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am sooooooo done with this issue Illegals are dring the life blood from anyone who is here ligit, see how post courier is they call I.N.S I bet NOT
Posted by wonderdog on June 29, 2008 at 8:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sure, health care is a complicated issue. I work overtime for the privilege of paying $300 per month for health insurance. I recently had a non elective procedure and got hit with my 20%, which is over $2000 and will be paid monthly until it is paid off. Illegals and others don't pay for health insurance and get the same medical procedure - free for them but paid for by people like me.
Yes, in that way, we are stupid, Johnq.
Posted by tbird19552001 on June 29, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I encourage the Post and Courier to continue printing articles like this for one simple reason. The comments show that the majority of South Carolinians are vehemently opposed to illegal immigration in this state. The more articles you write the more enraged we get. Soon, maybe we can get rid of the useless deadweight politicians, mayors, law enforcement officials and business owners that are sanctioning this invasion and encouraging even more illegal aliens to come to the great state of South Carolina because we are welcoming them with open arms.
The legislation just passed hardly has any real teeth in it. Lindsey Graham just won the Republican primary so he will most definitely assist his mentor, John McCain in giving amnesty to all the lawbreakers. Most citizens in this state do not have a clue about how drastic this problem has become. The liberal media continue to feed us feel good stories about how great everything is when it isn't. For instance, my local liberal rag, The State newspaper, has headlines today about 2,700 new hotel rooms being planned over the next 18 months. Nowhere in the article does it state that 75% of the workers for that project will be illegal aliens. Nowhere in the article does it say how many native citizens will be left out of the work when it starts.
The only way for us to fix the problems in this state is to do it ourselves. And the only way to do that is to get every citizen as mad as we are.
Posted by wonderdog on June 29, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Exactly, Gadsden. Let's face it folks, no matter who gets into the White House, we are all scr*wed.
Posted by Riptide on June 29, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Johnq2...
I’ve lived in California for close to 3 decades. We’ve experience the illegal aliens for quite some time now. Between the liberal democrats, country club republicans, assorted leftists, nuts and fruits they’ve turned that state into the largest open air asylum in the world. You’re such a collectivist you can not come up with your own identity, you have to call yourself Johnq2? I realize you guys are into group think but this is carrying it a bit too far.
Posted by bobkitty on June 29, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I hear ya' johnq!!!
Posted by wise1 on June 29, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I second that wonderdog.
Posted by STREETLAW on June 29, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
God bless people like this and help them in their suffering. But do not call them illegal immigrants. They are alien trespassers.
Someone needs to do a study of what happens to trespassers in their countries. More than likely there is a universal maxim concerning people who would invade your sanctuary and rob you of your resources.
I believe it is "Trespasser will be shot."
Posted by nesseca on June 29, 2008 at 8:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Mouth of the South spewed:
"Just for the record, Catholics are NOT Christians. The Catholic Church is the worlds largest cult."
Why don't you take your bigoted remarks elsewhere.
Posted by tellthetruth on June 29, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Why would the Post and Courier publish this story except to create anger and confusion to the public, what an irresponsible article to write. Stop trying brainwashing the people with hate and try printing news.
Posted by Horratio on June 29, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well back to the topic at hand: our state legislators.
I thin that was a good article by the P & C. It is a complicated issue. So, now, based on that article, no matter which side of the issue you are on,
Is the law passed by our legislators worth the paper its printed on or the time used to come up with it or debate it ?
What a waste of hot air in Columbia. What a useless law. It does nothing for anybody no matter which side you are on.
Our SC government is broken and the men in charge will not allow it to be fixed because they like to strum around like a bunch of peacocks.
We will never have a more effective government to fix real problems until we change the imbalance. We do not have an effective balance. The executive branch needs to be strengthened in SC if we will ever get anything done.
Posted by RTC on June 29, 2008 at 9:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell, who championed the reform, said, "There's no reason taxpayers should foot the bill for illegals. It's flat wrong. We're having trouble keeping up with those already here. Adding the burden of those not contributing to the system is unfair."
McConnell says it best. I might not agree with everything that he says, but he is right on the money with this one.
It's a crying shame that he doesn't have more support from fellow senators and congressman on this opinion.
Posted by cinnabar on June 29, 2008 at 9:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Come on, Mouth...The Catholics are an old religion with traditions going back thousands of years. They invented Christianity. They are a captive of their history and traditions. All religions have some quirky issues related to the fact they are man's imperfect interpretation of God's word.
On the illegals, the time to shut illegal immigration down is now. Our country is a nation of immigrants, but is also supposed to be a nation of laws. It's time these laws were enforced. Many of our jobs have been exported overseas, and the local labor force has been hit by illegals. The issue is health care and job security. Citizens now can't afford health care because they are loosing their jobs. Write Senators DeMint and Graham with your concerns...
Posted by tadii on June 29, 2008 at 9:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You are interviewing one of millions of illegal aliens. Turn her into the INS. ship her ass & family back to her country & let her countrymen tax dollars fix her. Then, if you want in this country, do it leggally like my great-grandparents did!!
Posted by southerngirl45 on June 29, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I guess you all know that eventually none of US will be able to get health care because of all these illigals! Not so long ago(AND I SWEAR I'M TELLING THE TRUTH) my son had to be taken to the Trident hospital,with his blood pressure well over the safe limit.He was in fact at a dangerous level.When I arrived the waiting room was full of Mexicans with a dozen babies or so,none of them looking very sick because most were running around chasing their kids.They gave my son a drill about how he was going to pay the bill, and maybe he should wait the next day to see his family dr.I can tell you this ole' mom went bullistic. I demanded they get the hospital admin. on the phone because I wanted to know if everyone of the Mexicans running around in the lobby had insurance! My son was between jobs at the time because he works in construction( he is a skilled carpenter,trained in his field) and you probally have already guessed)HE could't get a job because the illegals have them.NOW getting back to my point,I work every day,40 hrs. a week to be exact with diverticulitis.Yes it difficult to deal with,but PRIDE keeps me going.I also have other health issues,but I keep on going because I need to hold my head up high and I work to keep insurance.What burns me up is people like this person gets in the newspaper all smiles rubbing her belly,OH I CAN'T WORK BECAUSE MY TUMMY HURTS!!!!!!!!And it's not only the illegals,it's also lazy Americans that go on disability because they are too D--- lazy to work!! People my age should be thinking about retiring,but who can retire when so much of your pay goes to taxes just to take of these deadbeats.Sometimes I cry because I hurt so badly,but I grab that second cup of coffee and go!!!BY THE WAY my kid got a good job working with a co.that says they won't ever go illegal!!I have a feeling we will see this person on a news channel asking for donations to help with her medical bills!WISH I HAD TIME TO SAY MORE BUT I HAVE TO GO TO WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
speaking of liberal verses conservative, if anyone is paying attention to the actual results it seems that our President Bush has done an excellent job that will live on in the history books forever
Bush has won the war in Iraq, now we just have to teach them how to run their own country
Bush put John Roberts in the SCOTUS which nearly single handily saved our country from turning into a communist or socialist country by protecting our 2nd amendment
Bush has prevented any foreign terrorist attacks on our soil from happening again since 9-11
Bush has kept out economy afloat during many times that any other leader would have led us into instant depression several times over from any one of the drastic things that have happened to this country since he took office, from 9-11 to the Enron crap and more
Bush didn't tell all these people to go out and buy houses they couldn't afford, hence why he is NOT responsible for the housing crisis now but he's still trying to help these ignorant buffoons out
Bush is trying to make it so we can drill on our own soil, which we should have done decades ago, so we can be more self supporting and it will END the Oil/Gas crisis... and is also offering huge bonuses to anyone to come up with viable substitutes
and you can go on and on and on, History will hail President Bush as a Hero when it's all said and done... he's done many things under the radar that he gained no notoriety for that will strengthen our country for many decades to come
long after he is gone people will still reap the benefits from his presidency... it will become clearer to the unbelievers in the near future
Posted by flowerchild55 on June 29, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"About 800,000 South Carolinians are estimated to be uninsured. South Carolina's illegal immigrant population, which is largely uninsured, is estimated at 55,000 to 75,000."
Over and over I have seen people use our emergency rooms as doctors offices. For anything from a common cold to high blood pressure. These folks are US citizens!
From the figures stated above, even if illegals are turned away, the burden won't be alleviated by much. What we need is affordable insurance and healthcare.
I can remember a time when doctors practiced medicine because they cared about people, even made house calls! Hospitals kept people until they were well enough to go home, not throw you out to make room for the next guy.
There is definitely something wrong with our healthcare systems today. The costs keep rising with the insurance premiums. How many times over do we have to pay for that new peice of equipment?
Posted by drp7773 on June 29, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Getting back to this story, is this writer and paper trying to make us feel sorry for a criminal? Why wouldn't she just take her Criminal butt back to mexico and get healthcare, she could even drink some water down there, that will clear out a lot.Why doesn't this paper and writer foot the bill for her healthcare or trip back to mexico. Why isn't the law at her door locking her up as we speak, I mean Goose Creek isn't that hard to find.
Posted by Smart_Enough_2_Know_Better on June 29, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't care what nationality or skin color you are- no one deserves a handout. Anything that the immigrant population has learned about suckling at the teat of Uncle Sam they have learned from our own people. To me it's not so cut and dry as "kick them out". Personally, I welcome the competition in the manual labor pool.
In my experience the Latin American immigrant population, by and large, is easily twice as hard-working as our own indigenous labor pool. American laborers feel entitled, are lazy and resent the fact that they have to do their "crappy" jobs. Immigrant laborers tend to expect nothing from "the system" (they generally avoid government at all costs, with the admitted exception of some healthcare issues), work hard to keep their jobs and are grateful for the chance they have been given to realize a dream. They don't take "the land of opportunity" for granted.
I think the real issue for many American's is 1) immigrants tend not to look or talk like you and me and 2) they represent competition at the bottom of the food chain. Personally, I don't have a problem with either of those things. It's getting EVERYONE off the Uncle Sam gravy train that is more important to the health and welfare of this country.
Posted by lcnative on June 29, 2008 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This makes me SICK! Waht's wrong with these bleeding heart liberal reporters?
The baby Angelica Ventura Gonzalez is holding is an American citizen (a law that needs to be changed NOW). The law does not apply to her, and especially her baby. Angelica Ventura Gonzalez is now able to get some the finest medical insurance in the country for free for her baby, because you can be sure she does not work and her husband or the baby's father does. HE might also work under an assumed name so that they can fail to report their income and get food stamps as well all while he steals a job from an American!
Black people really need to wake up to this because illegals are now the largest minority group (when combined with their so called "legal" counterparts) and they compete for the jobs in poor neighberhoods: You can be sure when the local fast food joint has a majority of hispanic employees that do not speak english an english speaking applicant will not be hired. So if you want to be a manager of such a business learn spanish now because there will be MANY jobs that require spanish speaking ability.
I am a 42 year old Charleston native: I am currently living in Las Vegas, NV and the things of which speak are ten times worse here: Mexicans and south Americans EVERYWHERE! They take the jobs, they occupy the majority of public housing, they drive without insurance with impunity die to their fake names and assumed indetities!
Illgeal imigration is the cause of a great number of our nations ills.
You know how gas prices just kind EXPOLDED? Well the gas prices are NOTHING compared to what these people are going to do to our country!
Posted by jillhunter98 on June 29, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok, I am fed up with the illegals coming here illegally and using our ER's and other facilities free of charge. I think they should be deported.Period. I worked in the health care field for many years and saw this first hand. Not only is our money being spent for the cost of their heatlhcare there is also a lot of money being spent on translators!! This is especially true in the schools as well. Does everyone know we are also educating the illegal children at our expense?? Does everyone also know that SC's early intervention program, Babynet, also serves illegalls??
I have an adopted child who came to this country LEGALLY. I had no choice but to shell out thousands of dollars to our INS system so this could happen. It infuriates me that illegals are allowed to break the rules. I remember sitting in the INS office here in Charleston a few years ago when I was in the adoption process and being infuriated that illegals were allowed to leave there with no consequences.
Something must be done before they are allowed to bankrupt this country. There are so many stories I could tell. I have a friend whose uncle was killed right here by an illegal immigrant. I have friends from other countries who spent years going about US citizenship the legal way and had to make many sacrifices to do it legally. For those interested there are some good sites you can visit: usenglish.org and usillegalaliens.com
Posted by RedSnappa on June 29, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
How come the P&C and the local TV news wont do a story about the Slimeball employers that pick these criminals up everyday at Ashley Phosphate and Stall road. How many of the City workers I see are here legally? I have stopped going to the Ladson flea market because it has become a third world country.
Posted by lcnative on June 29, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Bye the way: Which state has the fasted grwoing illegal population? SOUTH CAROLINA!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by lcnative on June 29, 2008 at 10:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey RedSnappa: Same thing at the Las Vegas, NV flea market. Was a nice traditional American passtime and now it's MEXICO!
Posted by lcnative on June 29, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Jill Coley LIES when she says "When her symptoms become crippling, she goes to the emergency room, which under federal law must stabilize her. But emergency physicians treat only her current symptoms, rather than perform diagnostic tests necessary to determine why her conditions are disabling."
This is a LIE: If somebody shows up at the hospital with diverticulitis in the emergency phase the ER performs very expensive tests such as a CT scan ($7500) blood, urine, x-rays ($2000) and medication and EVEN surgery if needed.
LIES!
Posted by gamecockwoman on June 29, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is all so sad but changes must be made! Why doesn't Glenn McConnell and the rest of our legislators stop pontificating before the cameras and DO THEIR JOBS TO FIX THIS! If he would spend a quarter of the time and state's money on fixing this problem as he does perpetuating the darn civil war we'd be so much better off! I am so sick of these people in office - always with the news bites and camera ops, then doing NOTHING!
Posted by BKLYNIRISH on June 29, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Posted by RedSnappa on June 29, 2008 at 10:13 a.m.
How many of the City workers I see are here legally?"
I have seen it first hand and confirmed it. The response from the municipality? "Well, they are hired through a labor company...the company checks them out. We are not responsible."
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on June 29, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This makes me freakn sick.This is not anything that requires emergency medical care.Ths law breaker probably takes up ER time/space everytime she wants some narcotics for her belly pain.I'd love to know P&C if I committed a crime would you feature me and my picture and do a pathetic pity story?No.No you wouldnt.We are taking criminals and elevating them to local rock star status.I went to MUSC ER recently and couldnt find where to sign in because so many signs were in SPANISH!!Not to mention I had to wait and wait and wait because they all had the sniffles.Wake up folks!These leaches know how to milk our system.They go in for minor crap and claim theyre dying to get seen.The medical staff is scared as heck they'll get sued for discrimination.And with the ACLU coming to town....God help us.
Posted by ThinkAboutThis on June 29, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm legal, hardworking, pay texes, pay $600+/month for BC/BS, and work 50+ hours a week, but have a $5200 deductible and so can't get my health needs taken care of due to not having any extra money to pay the deductible!
Don't start whining to me about health coverage or why others think they should get it for "FREE"!
Posted by Mayor on June 29, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Johnq2..ditto....F the last 8 years. Look what's happened?
I often wonder what the world would be like if Hitler was accepted into art school?
The difference between show business and a gang bang is that in show business everybody wants to go on last.
You know what would be fun? Drop acid, smoke PCP, and take a White House tour with Jim Carrey.
Just because your penis surgery was not successful is no reason to go off half-cocked.
Tis better to think of the above, illegals are not a problem that, you, me, etc. need to waste our time on. It's up to the morons we've elected, and they won't do anything. Mi asno duele!
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on June 29, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You know whats funny?These liberals yap about being so concerned about the lives of our troops.These same people want to ignore the statistics that show how many people are robbed,raped,beaten,killed or otherwise victimized by illegal immigrants EVERYDAY in our OWN COUNTRY!!Funny how they pretend to care about one (just to jump on the anti Bush bandwagon)and turn a blind eye to the other.Embrace the "poor" illegals and turn their backs on our troops.Traitors.
Posted by Perspective on June 29, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
She needs to go to the Catholic Church have the evil demon spirits that cause her to be ill excorcised! Her neck will be sore for a few days due to her head spinning around, but after that she will be okay.
Posted by geekboy on June 29, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
RedSnappa wrote:
"I have stopped going to the Ladson flea market because it has become a third world country."
Same here.
Nor do I go to grocery stores or Wal-Mart on Friday evenings, because they are over-run with "south of the borders" cashing checks.
And don't even get me started on the BILLIONS of dollars sent out of the country to Mexico every year by the illegals.
Posted by NativeSon on June 29, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Solution: treat life threatening issues because we are a humanitarian country. Once stabilized, turn over to ICE for immediate transport to a hospital in their originating country.
What's the problem?
Posted by UnoCubanito on June 29, 2008 at 11:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
WOW Front Page Story On A Illegals Thoughts of Health Care been UNINSURED, but The AMERICAN CITIZEN being if he/she is Latino,Black,white,or whatever they are also "UNINSURED". I know many people and even family members who don't have insurance and NOT because being Latino (CUBAN) Illegal because cost of living is hard to even try to get insurance. SPEND MORE TIME WRITING STORIES ON THOSE WHO GIVE BACK TO THE CITY EVERYDAY, AND WORK HARD EACH DAY AND STILL CAN'T GET THE BASIC AS AN AMERICAN. TIRED OF HEARING ILLEGALS CRYING STORIES...BECOME A CITIZEN LOVE THIS COUNTRY YOU ROB FROM EACH DAY
Posted by gaitor66 on June 29, 2008 at 11:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
OK Her stomach hurts sorry my wallet hurts for paying for your free medical
Posted by NativeSon on June 29, 2008 at 11:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Perhaps the country of arigin for these people would step up to the plate and patrol their own borders if all costs associated with these criminals (medical, schooling, etc.) was billed back to them to pay for the people they allowed to illegally enter the US by whatever means.
If their country is held culpable, I think this crap would stop!
Posted by UnoCubanito on June 29, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What about the AMERICAN who don't have insurance that love this country and DON"T WANT THE GOVERNMENT TO GIVE FREE INSURANCE, but MAKE IT MORE AFFORDABLE..WHEN ITS AFFORDABLE GIVEN THE BEST DRUGS THAT MAY HELP THEM....I GREW UP IN CUBA LEFT AT THE AGE OF 11. I AM NOW 27 YEARS OLD AND FREE HEALTH ISN'T THE ANSWER, BUT I BELIEVE IN AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE THAT THOSE WHO WORK TO SURVIVE AND KEEP THIS COUNTRY RUNNING EACH DAY AND AT LEAST FEEL SAFE TO KNOW THEY HAVE HEALTH CARE
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
JohnLowIQ there's more people shot at in a day in North Charleston than Iraq... I guess you quit paying attention to what's going on over there when the tide started changing in our favor
I'm in constant contact with many people that are over there, some are relatives but many are friends or contract workers... they have a much better view of what's really going on over there than you will hear from some network with an agenda
we won John... it's all over but the cleanup and we're now making our last push to hit ole Bin in Pakistan before the election, we know where he is and we have tons over tons of WMD's from Iraq that will be brought to light as well in a very short time... unless they keep it hidden for strategic reasons
Posted by NorthernTransplant on June 29, 2008 at 11:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
ILLEGAL....why give her print.
Somebody get a truck, pick her up and take her to INS.
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
JohnNoIQ says... "Your country is about to fall to pieces because of the corrupt and immoral...."
ahemmm who's country??? you just let the cat out of the bag dude, that just explained all of your rants you've ever had here and you just lost all credibility of even being American... SlickJohnny eh...
go back to your own country and mess it up with your erroneous statements meant to deceive people into believing things that will ultimately harm this country
Posted by preachlove on June 29, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jammer - If we had won the war in Iraq, I'm sure McCain would be saying so for political purposes. Why hasn't Bush found Osama? He was the reason for 9/11, wasn't he?
Tell me, How many people got killed in NC today compared to how many people got killed in Iraq. Your statement is grossly false.
When Bush took the White House, the immigrant problem was not 1/10th as bad as it is doday. Don't you realize Bush is all about business and profits - that's why he has not taken a stand on a very important issue that is having ripple affects on us all, just as gas prices are affecting just about everything...
I won't go into all of your other Bush points; but Bush will go down as one of the WORST presidents in history. Check his approval rating, if you don't agree.
As always, you make no sense.
This immigration issue is destroying this country from within and with Carl Rove gone, Bush can't even give it a good SPIN.
Posted by common_sense_plz on June 29, 2008 at 12:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
wow!!!
issue #1 - stop the whole have a baby in the US and he/she becomes a citizen and is entitled to WIC, medicaid, etc. That dates back to slavery and is no longer needed.
Wonderdog - if you are only paying 300/mo. you are pretty lucking. I pay double that. In pretty good health, but self employed. The policy also goes up ever year because of the rise in health care cost.
To the person that said US Citizens going to the ER not illegals are driving up cost. You my friend are WAY OFF BASE. These US citizens have a nine digit number called a social security number. That ssn keeps me connected to paying that bill for a long long time. If I did not have a ssn once I'm all better and walk out of the hospital, I am free and clear until next time causing those with insurance and ssn to divy up my bill.
Southerngirl45- I hear ya about disabilty. My mom got one of those statements from the Social Security Admin. It broke down what she would get if she retired at 62, 65, 70. or whatever the ages are. And also what she would get if she was on disability now. SHE WOULD GET MORE TO GO ON DISABILTY NOW THAN TO WORK UNTIL RETIREMENT!! Tell me that ain't a screwed system and a bunch of BS. Then with disability you could also get health care and food stamps to go with your check.
I forgot the issue # but the system is messed the heck and the people that we currently have in office are in no way shape fashion or form looking to change it. Hell, they have 6 fig salaries with automatic raises, health care - for life, and could care less that the rest are getting nervous over a tanking economy.
P.S. I still find it funny that bilunguals make more. Last time I checked English was the language here.
Posted by SpongeMunkie on June 29, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why should we cover the illegals health problems when there are so many of us who don't make enough money to support our families and pay for medical insurance/ or medical bills at the same time, yet make too much money to be eligible for any government benefits. Too many people I know are in this situation. Yes, their workplaces offer insurance, but it takes a huge chunk out of their pay. Who is offering to help the "working poor"?
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on June 29, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
JohnNoIQ-You refer to me as brain dead.Thats a joke.You have resorted to name calling while unprovoked.hmmmmm Oh yeah thats right on considering you're a liberal.Oh crap I can't prove my point so I'll name call and spin.I am certified in Emergency Response To Terrorism.I am WAY more educated on this subject than you realize.Don't make assumptions about me.I have personally viewed the videos from when Saddam launched WMD's on innocent women and children.I've seen their melted flesh.I've seen their dead bodies on the streets laying in the fetal position cradling their infants.You say it's unfair for these illegals to not get full ride medical care.What about the innocent people tortured in the middle east?You think Mexico is worse??You griped that pro lifers should adopt all of the kids.Well why don't you open your home to all of these illegal pieces of crap?Why don't YOU pay all of their medical expenses?We are sick of it!
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on June 29, 2008 at 2:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Angelica Ventura Gonzalez-Here's some advice.If you don't want to have to worry about medical bills from birthing a child......CLOSE YOUR LEGS!!!
Posted by moonpie on June 29, 2008 at 2:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Another illegal citizen that admits in the P&C they are illegal and now we ask why are they still here. You don't have to wait for the "new laws" to take effect. She is breaking laws already in place! Do something about her ICE! If you and I flood the ICE local office and your senator something will get done but just complaining to each other in these post get nothing done.
WE HAVE TO FORCE OUR POLTICIANS TO REVERSE THIS OR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WILL BE NO MORE!
Posted by UrGatorbait on June 29, 2008 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Flowerchild, nice facts. 800K uninsured South Carolinians and 60K illegals. Yeah those 60K are going to bankrupt us, prevent from getting health insurance, actually figuring out our own health insurance needs, determining what is needed and what is not. When that fails blame it all on the illegals. Not that they deserve free health care just for the asking mind you.
This medical problem of people using ER care and our hospitals was a problem before the illegals got blamed for everything, not they aren't making contributions to the problem at hand, it's easier to blame and bleat like hysterical sheep than look at the problems of the health care system. The system has been used and abused for decades. Health care concerns have been an issue before the illegals got left holding the bag for all it's problems by the neo-cons. Real Conservatives aren't simple minded dolts.
Then the really scary folks on here that want to shoot them. Really scary. Good to see a resurgence of common sense.
Those relying on SS, you are part of the problem. Take care of your own selves.
Preachlove, check the congressional approval ratings, they are even lower than the idiot in office right now. Since they "took over" gas prices have shot up, recession is on the horizon, food prices are up and the housing market crash with some dems getting some sweetheart deals on mortgages. All since Nancy "Curly Fry" Pelosi, Scary Reid and Richard "Turban" Durbin took "charge". Change? ya keep swallowing the MSM kool-aid dude. Your Any Body but Bush symptoms are flaring man.
Tripsa, China owns our debt, the dollar is falling and oil prices are falling so freeing Iraq is a big so what. Before you run off on a rant, I did 2 tours there. Waste of time and our soldiers lives. Screw all the politicians who sent them there. If we clean it up and help maintain a peace then good for the troops. If you like nation building, do it on someone else's dime next time.
Then we have the literal evangelicals who are hoping to meet their messiah by pushing an agenda via PNAC and the radical right to begin their Armageddon, but that's a whole nether topic. Christ is in the present, now. If you believe different than the few regulars around here you are condemned a heretic and they make fun of your screen name like good little school kids.
Write in Ron Paul
Posted by news4me on June 29, 2008 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree with Mr Henderson...and since they know where is is..get her and send her home and let her country treat her..I too work hard and health insurance takes a huge bite out of my salary.
Key word: I WORK, no freebies for me
SEND HER BACK
Posted by Sandy37 on June 29, 2008 at 2:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not get it. I worked at Roper and all patients were required to show some form of I.D. either at admissions or at ER. I am a citizen and have insurance and asked to produce insurance/ID cards & drivers licenses at all medical facilites. Why do illigals get to be different? Do the doctors of these patients have to right to intervene? Why aren't these patients seen in the physicians private offices if they are so full of charity? ER is very expensive and no place for someone without a means to pay. Set up a free clinic for the uninsured or illigals financed by a charity group, don't leave it to the American Tax payer.
Posted by Popeye on June 29, 2008 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Those of U who voted for Hussein Obama and Juan McAmnesty, and who WILL vote for the South Carolina traitor Lindsey Graham are responsible for this kind of tax payer rip off. U should be ashamed of the part U are paying in the destruction of America.
Posted by wonderdog on June 29, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
common_sense_plz, I pay $300 per month for the BCBS family plan (it only covers one child, who is very healthy). Twice a year, BCBS makes me provide proof that my daughter is still a full time college student. Given what I have paid and continue to pay them vs. what little they have paid in claims, I would think they would want me to keep her on there forever. It is outrageously expensive, but I would do whatever necessary to make sure we have health insurance, even if it means taking on a second job to help pay the premiums.
As to what coolfreaknbeans just said.....you got that right.
Posted by Sandy37 on June 29, 2008 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The government of SC allows illegals to live there and they are the ones to blame. How can a newspaper interview an illegal and no one deports her? Because someone wants her there for the low wages she or someone in her family works for...must be a pretty powerful employer. Who has a nice maid that they could not afford otherwise, who has a beautiful yard that is well cared for, who has a whole staff that works cheap? These are the SC people who are to blame. Look around you. Until everyone takes responsibility, it will go on..
Posted by bobkitty on June 29, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
tripsa et al. seem to be up on your Bible....at least the parts that suit your racist ideology. What version are you reading? Have you read it from cover to cover? Are you aware that if you belong to Christ that you are adopted into the Abrahamic covenants and are a part of Israel? Care to use your time a little better by seeing what God directed the children of Israel to do with people that were being forced from their own country because of inhumane conditions?
This racist-false family values crap is why so many hurt people are running away from the church. The Catholic bashing makes me sick....I mean...just sick.
The words "illegal immigrants" have become synonymous with words like pig and vermin. THESE ARE PEOPLE!!!! They are made in God's image...just like all of the liberals and homosexuals that you probably hate also....stop calling yourself a Christian. I don't care how much scripture you can quote...Satan knows the Bible too and he is the REAL evil one...not the Mexicans, not the liberals.
Just fine these people $4k a piece, like a ticket and pump that money into "the system". (They CAN come up with this money...they do it to get here in the first place and would gladly pay it.)If they are criminals, then send them back. Just being here to make a better life for yourself and your family is not criminal...that's just silly. Do have any idea what the living conditions are like where they come from?
Let me guess....you don't care, you just want what's right and proper and legal...right??
Well how about this: if all of the evangelical, loving Christians were doing their job by feeding the poor and loving their neighbors (instead of spending your afternoon at Lowe's or on your boat) Then the government would not be forced into solving all of the problems that poverty causes.
BTW. If a man doesn't work, he shouldn't eat. This is a health care-health insurance-welfare issue by a MUCH GREATER measure than it is an illegal immigrants issue. It's a mess...it's a cancer that is stealing the life out of our economy...the immigrant thing is like the flu.
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
JohnJohnJohn, why do people like you and peacehate always resort to name calling when your point is muted by facts... you guys need to go back on your free medicare meds and take a good long nap... maybe you'll wake up feeling much better with a clearer perspective on things
as someone else said, it really doesn't matter what we think... no one is listening
and it doesn't matter who's running for POTUS, neither choice has the majority of the citizens concerns in mind and they seemingly could care less what we want past the election
how we got here I don't know...
we should have one primary on one day so that the real majority candidate of the people will win, this spread out for months crap as you whittle down the candidates is worthless and everyone ends up with people you don't want
this country is going to rise up against all this crap if it continues on, I see another tea party coming!!
Posted by gamecockwoman on June 29, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree - if her tummy hurts, stop eating so darn many tacos!!!!! I think all she needs is a good laxative.
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
one more thing, this year there will be approximately 12,000 people in THIS country shot to death... in ONE year, mostly minorities shooting other minorities over drugs and the likes
that's way more than the entire Iraq/Afgan wars combined, we've won that war JohnnyBoy... it's the war here we need to win
Posted by onecarenowla on June 29, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Stop this nonsense.
Health Care is not complicated to fix. A quick and simple solution is right in front of us -- provide a single payer universal health care system for all -- like Medicare does today for all our seniors.
Eliminate for-profit insurance, negotiate all drug costs and make EVERY resident pay a simple tax (including undocmented workers). There's tons of money to solve the problems, it just needs to go to the providers not to Wall Street. We'll all have full care for all, for life, for less.
Another point: health care for undocumented workers is a small fraction of the health care mess facing everyone, legal or not.
Go see California's OneCareNow Campaign for SB 840 single payer legislation at www.onecarenow.org.
Thanks.
Posted by camo on June 29, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It will be a year ago that Oklahoma passed bill HB1804....the night before the bill went into affect over 100 thousand, yes that figure is 100 thousand, illegals left the state. The bill is also known as the Oklahoma Citizens Protection Act. The reason for the mass exodus of illegals, because illegals were no longer going to be getting state freebies, any company that employed illegals were going to get fined severely and possibly lose their business license, any landlord caught renting to illegals would also suffer still fines, any time an illegal was stopped for any violation, their status as a legal citizen was going to be challenged, if they weren't legal, off to jail and deportation. Yes companies got mad because a lot of them lost their cheap labor, but after seeing what the state gained in financial savings far out weighed the cost of those jobs. Where did the illegals go....to any state that didn't have such laws, to states where they could continue on their free gravy train. All illegals should be reported to the INS, the heck with doctor patient confidentiality, they should not get anything from a country they have shown no respect for. This woman is a prime example and should be embarassed to be the subject of this article, but hey, she knows nothing will happen to her. You want to be here, the accept our rules and become a positive citizen, not just another drain on our country, God knows we have enough legals doing just that.
Posted by goosecreek_guy on June 29, 2008 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
So, since the paper knows where her trailer park is ICE should come and "assist" her... send her packing!
Posted by UrGatorbait on June 29, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
tripsa, comparing the the current fracas in Iraq to Normandy is a terrible comparison. It's a stretch of the imagination to even compare the two. Besides I never mentioned the actions of Normandy, destroying the nazi threat or anything related to WW2. Iraq has been discussed ad nauseam. I didn't think the war was necessary. It was predicated on a PNAC agenda that was spoiling and looking for any reason to go to war with Iraq. If you like war you can feed the machinery of war. We gotta keep the military industrial complex machine fed now don't we? I was also there for the first time and knew we would be back. I was also in Somalia but I digress.
The illegals are a burden but there are not many solutions just a lot of demagoguery from the neo-con talking heads and other "concerned" folks passed off as solutions to the uniformed masses fed, for a lack of a better term, propanganda.
Universal health care? LMAO The gubmint can't balance the books and people really think the feds can take care of your health with out bankrupting it? Those people must find joy in giving their hard earned money away for the few. Please don't say we all need it. I also believe in preventative care. Like taking responsibility for care of yourself to prevent alot of health problems. Fast food restaurants would be something you should pay a hefty surcharge on to cover the cost of health care. Obesity causes a multitude of problems that us middle class folk are expected to handle. Smoking is another one you could beat to death in discussion. You think it costs alot now? Implement universal health care with the illegal problem and see what happens to your taxes.
Ron Paul believes in staying out of others countries business. I see the hysterical barbarians at the gates rant is still valid. The problem is already here. We opened the gates ourselves and haven't a clue what to do. Staying out of others business is probably good policy.
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on June 29, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
jammer and tripsa,glad you guys are here or I'd really feel like I was on Mars.Some of the crap these people spew is beyond belief.Note:johnnyq_nut as you called him has called us names in almost every post.So typical.He rants as if he has missed his afternoon meds and makes no sense.Maybe he's really Cindy Sheehan.
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on June 29, 2008 at 4:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We should form a citizens group to take action.We could do a lot of good.We could actively involve ourselves reporting illegals to ICE,prevent illegal loitering(which is out of control)and expose law breaking citizens who hire and assist illegals.
Posted by bobkitty on June 29, 2008 at 4:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I guess you would have had Jesus take some meds when He was turning over the tables too?? Whoa...Jesus...you are craaazy... Yes, I am very offended by many of the comments made on behalf of the Bible and Christians on this post. It boils my blood. I know how merciful and wonderful the Lord is and to hear His precious words used to denegrate other human beings....and to lead the lesser informed down a path of hate...I don't want any of what you're taking. That evil cult leader Mother Theresa wouldn't want any of your 'scrips either...I'm sure.
To be clear: Yes, they are breaking the law...so do YOU every day...like going over the designated speed limit or not using the crosswalk...can we just treat this humanely? Can you say eh-qwit-ee?? Not shoot people or send them back to certain failure and famine? Why would a fine not work?? Why can't it just be worked out? What should we do with the speeders? Let's shoot them too...they might run over an illegal alien and YOU will have to pay for that as well...it just never ends. Let the punishment fit the crime. I cannot find what is (at it's heart) criminal about coming to America to make money to feed your family. Sending everyone back is hyperbole: the right uses to ensure that they keep their cheap labor...they know it's impossible. If you fine people or they receive a penalty it isn't amnesty. I never thought that giving people a free pass to flood our borders was a good idea. Ever. But they are here and they are human beings. Let's sort this out in a humane fashion. Come on, dig down deep...I bet that inner child really wants to play nice.
Our borders need to be secure...agreed.
Mouth:It's not racist to expect people to obey the law. DUUUUUHHHHHHHH...it's the attitude behind most of these anti-immigrant folks...like they are animals. It reminds me of some of the references made about the slaves during the debates leading up to the civil war...THESE ARE PEOPLE!!!!! Justice demands payment, huh? Do Justly, Love Mercy, walk humbly with your God...just do it.
The anecdotal stuff I have seen posted today...ya know...don't we all know that you don't judge and entire orchard by a few apples. Come on, be reasonable.
There IS room here for them. And I really believe that most of them would be more than willing to pay their fair share if given the opportunity. Why does everything you people say sound so daggum biggoted? (yes, I AM a southerner, voted for Bush every time and growing less Republican every day because of haters like you.)
Trimspa: Jesus went off on the vipers...'member them? They were the church folk of His day. They just wanted to make sure everyone was following the rules to the jot and tittle. Why? I'll let you work that one out. He called them sons of satan...just check your heart. That's what He's looking at. I don't need to debate doctrine with you. Yours is crystal clear and we don't agree.
Posted by bobkitty on June 29, 2008 at 4:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I had no idea that there was a character limit, here's the rest:
Not helping your neighbor because,"...then we'll have to solve the entire world's problems..." again, hyperbole: a cop out for not doing the best you can to be a part of the solution. If we were all doing our part to end poverty this discussion would never have happened.
And my final post-point:
Being born in the USA should make you grateful and gracious...not hateful, protectionist, suspicious, greedy, disingenuous, spiteful, and racist...like a viper.
Being a Christian should make you realize that you have no rights, this is not your home, and getting all worked up about someone getting some of your money is a heart issue that needs to be worked out with the One that made you.
Posted by ridgerunner on June 29, 2008 at 5:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Was in a grocery store a few days ago a gentleman of mexican decent went to service counter and ask to wire 5000. to mexico when store employee told them they should show proof of the way money was obtained, and place of residence he hit the door. also in some of the school districts (yes i know for a fact) pay mexicans $30 dollars an hour just to sit and wait on some one to come in that cant speek english so they can interpet for them.
WHERE AM I GOING AND WHY AM I IN THIS HANDBASKET?
Posted by Nacho on June 29, 2008 at 7:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I feel that in order to address the problem of illegal immigrants, we as a society first need to accept the fact that the problem currently exists rather than spending time pointing fingers at other political parties. The problem is here, now, what can be done to correct it? First of all, the inflow of illegal aliens should be minimized by means of increased border security. Also employers who hire illegal immigrants should be fined/arrested so that the illegal alien job market dwindles, further reducing the inflow of illegals. Obviously, we have a large number of problems dealing with the illegal aliens that currently reside in the USA. I agree that US taxpayers should not have to pay for any type of medical (or other) treatment for non-taxpayers. However, I feel that the treatment of non-taxpayers needs to be evaluated to minimize the cost to the taxpayers. If the government suddenly stops treating illegals alltogether the health and welfare of the entire society will be comprimised due to spreading diseases and other social issues ramified from the lack of certain medical care. In the long run, this could cost the government and tax payers even more than we are paying now for the treatment of illegal aliens and US citizens. Therefore, I feel that illegal aliens should only recieve health care in cases that will reduce the cost later. I understand that it is very difficult and expensive to round up and ship off all the illegal immigrants, but I feel that we can start shipping them off. Even if a small percentage of illegals are sent back, it will send a message to the others. There is no easy and simple solution to this problem. It will take a lot of time and money, but it needs to be addressed for the short term and long term success of our great country.
Posted by realman on June 29, 2008 at 7:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
All illegal immigrants should be deported. . .
to NEW YORK!
Let's see how the liberals in the East react to that! When they have to foot the bill they will do an about face!
We really need to crack down on, and remove, all illegal immigrants. They are a drain on our economy and, hence this article, our health system. I think any hospital that doesn't report an illegal immigrant to ICE should be fined.
Posted by granny2 on June 29, 2008 at 7:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Plain and simple, just sent their ass back where they came from.
Posted by WSMcDaniel on June 29, 2008 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Was this story forwarded to ICE? If not, I'll do it myself!
I work a full time and part time job to support my own family, and I have to listen to these idiots in here with a misplaced sense of noblesse-oblige demanding that I show compassion? I don't think so! These Socialist throwbacks demand that I surrender what I earn...and I don't live extravagantly by any measure...and give it over to whom they deem a "victim class" to assuage their prosperity guilt of being a poor little rich kid, or to empower themselves politically. I give to charity organizations, and do work with them, and I NEVER see a liberal at any of them. Yet, if I have to do without, let my family do without, that's okay. These folks can come here illegally and live off me, and I am compelled to turn over my earnings under coercion by the power of the state! Go back to your own Socialist nation and let your own workers' paradise take care of you if Socialism works so well!
What amazes me is the fact that neither side of the "political class" wants to do anything about this. The Democrats are hidebound by their marxist philosophy of race trumping all, and the possibility of a new block of voters that will forever change the demographics of this nation, and the Republicans are beholden to the business interests that live off this "neo-slavery." It is high time for another tea party!
Posted by JC on June 29, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Okay..you know her name...know she's in a trailer park in Goose Creek....GO GET HER AND SEND HER PACKING!!
Posted by jammer on June 29, 2008 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
coolbeans we aren't on mars but it seems we have several martians at once visiting
wait until these people are victims of illegal aliens and watch how quickly they change their tune, they have no backbone and will be crying for everyone else to help them when the SHTF in their own lives
things are still cushy for them right now but that will change in the near future, and while many of us will actually do something about it they will just sit in fear squealing like a bunch of pigs stuck in mud waiting to be rescued
when the SHTF will we rescue them? of course not, only the strong will survive and will not wish to be tainted by such a subspecies that would only hold the progress back... after all the only effort they gave was to call us names... lol
you want to see national healthcare?? take a look at Canada's lately? pure failure that many are dying from now, takes months to get an appointment in to see a doc about anything large or small and no one's in a hurry... after all they aren't going to get paid more for doing more so why bother
no competition means lousy care, no incentive to learn or do better... they are spiraling into 3rd world health care status as we type... look it up for yourself
there really are a ton of ignorant people in this area, it's no wonder we are at the bottom of the gene pool with education or qualifications in anything
Posted by roset on June 29, 2008 at 10:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am so angry at the Goverment for letting this go.This is why I feel that it is up to each one of us to do our part to stop this and send the illegals back to their own country.Let them go thur the legal system to become an American citizen.Sure I have no problem with treating the sick for an emergency.But if they are not legal citizens and that is breaking the law then send them back.We should not discriminate against anyone so check everyone before treament,work,school,rentors,buyers and so one.If they are not willing to show a passport or birth cert. then find the bus that is to take them back to their own country. I understand that things are bad in their own countries. But why let them do our country in and bring it to its knees. The Post and Courrier even makes me more angry if that is possible.They write these articles and find these people that are living and working in our area and they make no mention of turnning them in. As far as I think they are giving aid to those for not turnning them in.If we cut of the gravy train of help and stop helping those that are breaking the law.Maybe we can still save our health care system before giving away everything.
Posted by hadenuff on June 29, 2008 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Once again, the limousine-liberal Post and Courier outdid itself today with the illegal immigrant story. Most of us readers probably ended up with a stomach ache as well.
There are a number of 'sanctuary' cities in the USA for the illegal immigrant. Houston, San Francisco, Chicago, NYC to name a few. If I had the money, I'd post billboards along I-26 advertising that fact.
The USA is well on it's way to becoming a Third World country. No matter who is elected POTUS in November, brace yourself, an amnesty program will be passed for the entire 12-20 million illegal immigrants now in our midst. And apparently, there isn't a damned thing that the average law-abiding citizen can do about it. If one thinks we have problems now, just wait.
I fear for my children and my grandchildren who will grow up in a USA far different than the one I was privileged to experience. Americans by nature are a giving and forgiving population. We've had about enough I would say.
Go to http://www.immigrationshumancost.org to get the true picture of what illegal immigration is bringing to this country.
Posted by rollo on June 29, 2008 at 11:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Seems to me the solution is simple. She can illegally immigrate to Cuba or Canada, where her health care would be provided by the state under law. Why immigrate illegally to a country where you don't belong and then demand benefits that you know don't exist??
That's crazy!!
Posted by THEKEG on June 29, 2008 at 11:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I can not believe this article - or the fact that you want us to feel sorry for this woman because she can't get health care - You obviously, like many in our illustrious government are very pooryly informed if you really believe we should feel bad for her. My husband and I are US citizens - tax payers - and have been for over 40 years - we work hard and still don't make much money - in fact we seem to be making less and less each year - have to pay those taxes - our jobs do not offer health care benefits - we have to pay for it out of our pocket at the lovely cost of $800/month for the two of us - Now you say, but at least you have health insurance -well big whoop - Can't afford to go to the doctor or have any hurts, pains or anything else looked after - can't afford the deductibles, can't afford the copays -can't afford to let them know anything is wrong - they'll up the premium. So tell me again why I should feel sorry for this woman - My knees hurt so bad every day I almost can't get down my steps or in and out of my car....Bounced around the health care system....I'd like to know how I can get a single bounce - nope guess that's not going to happen - they'll attach my wages if I don't pay.....but I shut up and keep going and pay my taxes for what - please tell me - so a non tax payer can get better health care than I? Wait - the company I have insurance with will gladly take her money - - Oh I forgot- she wants it for free--- Silly me ---We've worked hard for everything we have - and each year we seem to have less and less - PLEASE GIVE ME A BREAK - OH - HERE'S A THOUGHT - LET THIS WOMAN PAY ALL HER BACK TAXES APPLY FOR CITIZENSHIP AND STRUGGLE LIKE WE DO - ??SHE DOESN'T LIKE THAT SOLUTION?? TOUGH - I DON'T GET THAT CHOICE - I GO TO JAIL IF MY TAXES AREN'T/ BREAK THE LAW -I ASK YOU - WHY IS SHE NOT IN JAIL..??? I'LL SAY IT AGAIN - ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? THE FLEECING OF AMERICA CONTINUES!!!
Posted by whome on June 30, 2008 at 12:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Bush has kept out economy afloat during many times that any other leader would have led us into instant depression several times over from any one of the drastic things that have happened to this country since he took office, from 9-11 to the Enron crap and more
Bush didn't tell all these people to go out and buy houses they couldn't afford, hence why he is NOT responsible for the housing crisis now but he's still trying to help these ignorant buffoons out"
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Ummm. You can't have your cake and eat it too. The housing boom is what kept the economy afloat during the Bush Administration; it's what got us out of the dot.com bust. Think of all of those people spending their HELOCs like mad because they were somehow "richer" because the house in their neighborhood was sold at a higher price.
And by the way, we're all subprime or "buffoons" as you put it; some of us just don't realize it yet. Put it this way; if a house in your "comparable" neighborhood forecloses for any reason, then the whole line of dominoes starts falling; said dominoes include: freezing/reduction of HELOC and now credit cards, escalation clauses. As the banks get more hard up for cash, they'll exercise clauses that allow them to call loans for ANY adverse credit event. Any business that relies heavily on discretionary consumption or eas