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Expand worksite clinics

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 21, 2009

Your Sept. 15 editorial ("Revisit clinics to cut city's health costs," Our Opinion) on Charlie Miranda's idea to cut city health care costs using worksite clinics reflects one of the fastest-growing trends in America for both employers and government to cut their health care costs. The cost savings can be dramatic, health quality improved, and patient/physician satisfaction is excellent.

But why should Tampa or Hillsborough County taxpayers fund health clinics only for government employees? Why not let the entire population in on the cost savings and establish these clinics for everyone? Estimated costs to build and operate 11 centers would amount to $20-to-$24 per year per person in the county. That's less than it costs per year to pick up our garbage.

But, alas, it is presently illegal for the people of Hillsborough County to vote on such a plan and would require a waiver from the state Legislature. Perhaps Gov. Charlie Crist, Tampa City Council and the Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners could petition the Legislature for such a waiver.

JAMES P. DAVISON

Tampa

The writer is a doctor of osteopathy and a member of the Hillsborough County Healthcare Plan Study Committee.

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