After listening to the vice-presidential debates, I am again shocked at the notion that universal coverage for health care is considered a plot by the federal government to take over from your family doctor.

I am 55 years old and went on Social Security and Medicare nine years ago after three back surgeries left me unable to work. Since that time, my monthly Social Security check has arrived exactly on time and the correct amount. Medicare has paid what they agreed to pay within very short time frames.

My Medicare drug coverage even decreased its premium this year. I pay less than $100 a month for the same bottom line that I used to get from Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

I used to be an ICU nurse, then a hospital executive. I can tell you that when I see local non-profit hospitals spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on image advertising and not one dime on indigent care, it makes me furious.

Free market enterprise in health care will be as successful as the lack of regulation in the financial sectors now draining our economy. I am very happy with the way Social Security and Medicare provide for me. I paid into both my entire working life. I have not one complaint, and urge all of you to carefully examine the platforms of both parties before deciding on Nov 4.

Right now, a typical doctor's office in Augusta files claims with 700 insurance companies. That is absurd. All of you are paying more every year for less coverage. Be very careful before you make assumptions. Your life may well depend on it. Since health-care costs are the No. 1 reason for bankruptcy in our country, you better pay attention.

Stacey Fortson, Augusta