Congress is now debating one of the most important issues in a generation: health care reform. House leaders expect to pass America's Affordable Health Choices Act (HR 3200) before the August recess.

Unfortunately, Rep. Earl Pomeroy has said he'll vote "no" on HR 3200, largely due to his concerns over reimbursement issues involving Medicare and private insurers. Likewise, several other members of Congress have pledged to vote against HR 3200 because they, too, are concerned about the Medicare reimbursement disparity.

However, proponents of HR 3200 say the bill contains numerous provisions aimed at reforming Medicare payment policies, increasing Medicare payments for primary care and more broadly supporting delivery system reforms. Futhermore, these proponents say Medicare payment policies aimed at rural areas will be strengthened - with some services receiving increased rates.

As I understand it, here's the difference between Medicare and the "public option" contained in HR 3200: Under Medicare, savings from lower-cost delivery in a region do not benefit beneficiaries because premiums are set nationally. By contrast, lower rates paid under the new public health insurance option contained in HR 3200 will mean lower premiums to North Dakotans - both individuals and small businesses. In other words, under the public plan, more efficient delivery systems result in lower costs for a region's consumers and businesses.

While I thank Rep. Pomeroy for standing with his constituents in the past, a "no" vote on this health care reform bill is a vote against meaningful change. In fact, Rep. Pomeroy's "no" vote will aid the anti-health care reform lobby in its efforts to stop significant progress on this issue. Sadly, opposing the bill or slowing it down jeopardizes the chance for health care reform to help the uninsured and underinsured citizens of North Dakota.

Contact Rep. Pomeroy and urge him to support President Obama's health care initiatives by voting "yes" on America's Affordable Health Choices Act.