Shut out from the health-care system for no good reason.

In response to your article, "The uninsured: Everybody's concern" in the March issue of the Detroiter, I'd like to raise a hand and say, "That would be ME." Although gainfully employed and, in fact, running my own (very) small business, I do not have any health insurance simply because they will not approve me!

I have been searching for an affordable plan for the past two years now. Each time I find one that, firstly, doesn't confuse the hell out of me and, secondly, is something I can reasonably afford, I have been turned down.

The reason for their refusal is because, a few years back, I discovered a heart arrhythmia. Since I was diagnosed and treated, I have been fine. But it seems that this doesn't matter--I have a less-than-perfect health record (and I was honest about it--I didn't have to say a thing!)--so I am shut out. The last company rejected me because my wife, who I am also trying to cover, is on medication for mild depression. She's never been admitted, never had any trouble because of it, sought her treatment voluntarily and has been fine, but no matter.

This could possibly explain, in part, why people making $50,000-plus a year still do not have any coverage. And I know one thing for certain: there is no way I can afford Blue Cross.

Thanks for the article and your attention.

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Stu Chisholm

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