HMO Ads

Re “Managed-Care Ads: Rx for Image Ills?” Aug. 6:

The managed care health insurance industry is willing to spend $11.5 million to market to the public that it is selling a good service rather than reaping profits. Where else in the world would limited health care dollars be spent for advertising that benefits the industry? This money is being spent to forestall regulation in addition to the greater amount that is spent on lobbying and campaign contributions.

Limited health care dollars that come from government-funded programs, hard-earned consumer dollars and employer contributions are used to persuade consumers to pay up and lawmakers to keep their hands off, while appropriate care is denied to ensure higher profits. Something is wrong with this picture.

SHEILA HOFF

Rancho Palos Verdes