It’s time to put hospital fees in check
“Lawmakers narrow bill to limit hospital facility fees,” March 22 news story
My husband and I have owned our small business in Denver for 22 years. Over the years, our business has endured many challenges that have tested our resiliency.
I am extremely disheartened over the state of the health-care industry in Colorado. Policymakers are discussing valid and comprehensive legislation that will rein in rampant hospital fees and cap costs. These policy solutions will make health care more affordable for Coloradans and for employees at small businesses like mine.
Hospital consolidations have gotten entirely out of hand in Colorado, costing Coloradans thousands of dollars and monopolizing the health-care industry with no concern for the impact on people. Many Coloradans still cannot afford health insurance. If they have insurance, meeting ever-increasing deductibles, copays and surprise fees is challenging.
Legislators have solutions on the table that will make health care more affordable by ensuring that large hospitals are not driving up costs through unnecessary fees. We need state policymakers to step in and act on behalf of Colorado’s residents. Our small businesses will be grateful.
Sandra Payne, Denver
Appreciate the DCPA’s creative offerings
Re: “Enjoy entertainment, but not lessons in wokeness,” March 25 letter to the editor
A previous letter concerning the DCPA’s production of “1776” dismissed this current production as “a lesson in wokeness” seemingly based primarily on the use of females as actors. Quite to the contrary, I believe that the females captured the personalities of our Founding Fathers in an accurate way; the acting, lyrics and vocals were outstanding, and Sherman Edwards’ production was, in fact, a perfect rendition of the democracy that we would all desire.
Kudos to the DCPA for having available to Denver audiences materials that stretch our brains both educationally and creatively.
Mary Ann Watson, Denver
Prepare now for ozone this summer
Re: “State goes after emissions,” March 17 news story
While Judith Kohler’s article briefly informs of the negative health impacts stemming from street-level ozone and steps Coloradans can take during ozone action alerts to lower their contributions, the Regional Air Quality Council’s “Simple Steps. Better Air.” awareness campaign suggests more actions to prepare for this summer’s anticipated air pollution.
Being outside from June to August, when ozone is at its highest, can cause breathing challenges and eye irritation for those who are active and exercise, as well as for children and older residents. Extensive exposure can worsen pre-existing conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis.
To lower one’s individual footprint, the Regional Air Quality Council recommends the following:
• Drive less. Take public transportation, bike, or walk instead.
• Bundle your errands in one trip earlier or later in the day if you must drive.
• Join friends, family, or co-workers to carpool.
• Use electric or battery power for tasks at home, such as mowing the lawn and trimming bushes.
Another helpful resource is the Environmental Protection Agency, which shares the science behind ozone and other tips to tackle one’s emissions.
Kipp Lanham, Denver
