Letters to the editor

Retaining physicians

Regarding "Curing the coming physician shortage" (Our Opinion, July 6): I know of seven medical schools in Florida - University of Florida, University of South Florida, University of Central Florida, Florida State University, the University of Miami, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine-Bradenton and Nova.

The problem is not educating physicians in Florida; it is retaining physicians. The liability laws here do not encourage doctors to stay. Reductions in Medicare reimbursements to doctors, not insurance companies, impede physicians' desire to take more older patients.

MARGARET SWANSON

Apollo Beach

Fair Elections Now

Regarding "Florida needs campaign finance options: (Our Opinion, July 10):

The editorial board is rightfully concerned about gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott's self-serving attack on Florida's already anemic public financing system. Fortunately, campaign finance reform advocates are on the offensive in Congress.

The most effective and comprehensive solution is the Fair Elections Now Act (HR 1826), bipartisan legislation that would sever the ties between members of Congress and their special interest donors.

The bill would allow federal candidates to choose to run for office without relying on large contributions, big-money bundlers or donations from lobbyists, and candidates would be freed from the constant fundraising in order to focus on what people in their communities want.

Instead of protecting the interests of big oil and big pharma, it's time we have a government that worked for working Americans, not big corporations and their lobbyists.

It's time we return to government of, by and for the people. It's time for the Fair Elections Now Act. Tampa Bay Reps. Bill Young, a Republican, and Kathy Castor, a Democrat, should co-sponsor this legislation and work to pass it.

MARK FERRULO

St. Petersburg

Equine encephalitis

In 1979, there were nine known cases of equine encephalitis in Mississippi (population 2.5 million). I was one of them. I survived because I was in the prime of life, strong and blessed by God.

Trust me, you do not want any part of this disease. Although the Tribune article ("Mosquitoes with viruses on rise, analysis shows," front page, July 12) cites very low Florida infection rates, I urge common sense precautions when venturing outside, especially in the evenings.

Your odds may be better of winning the lotto than contracting encephalitis, but losing this bet could cost you your life. I beat the odds.

MARSHALL ADAMS

Tampa