A newly released poll shows nearly 7 out of 10 Ohioans want a public health care option.  So why is that important piece of health care reform dying on the vine?  No surprise - lobbyists and big business mean more to lawmakers than the voice of the people.

The Fall 2009 Ohio Health Issues Poll was released by the non-partisan Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati.  The polling was done by the University of Cincinnati and fairly represents the views of regular Ohioans about health care reform.  A full 69 percent of those polled say a public option would improve or significantly improve our health care system.

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Among the other findings:

  • 79% say being able to choose any doctor or hospital is extremely important
  • 74% place the highest priority on having health insurance despite age or medical history
  • 72% say having a plan that covers any test or treatment you or your doctor think you need is extremely important

If I’m a member of congress like Jean Schmidt (R - 2nd District), I’d say it’s a no brainer.  But then again, I’m not in Washington swimming in money from health care lobbyists.

You can find out much more about the Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati and their ongoing Ohio Health Issues Poll at http://www.healthfoundation.org/ohip.html.