As a practicing cardiologist in the Third Congressional District, I have the privilege of serving thousands of patients. I find myself very concerned about the recent health care legislation, escalating debt crisis, and lack of solutions found in Washington. Many feel as I do. Despite the time constraints we all live under, I decided to become involved and become engaged in the process of democracy. In the past I have felt it best to be politically neutral, however the world has changed greatly. I feel compelled to take a stand and am supporting Art Rhodes in his candidacy in the Third Congressional District. Why?

The recently passed health care legislation is a complex bill of 2309 pages extending the government to previously unheard of places. The financial impact is enormous. The cost is estimated at one trillion dollars. According to the Heritage Foundation, 18 million Americans will pay 33 billion in compliance penalties. Employers will pay 87 billion in penalties and 14 million will lose their current employee based coverage. It is estimated that 7.4 million will lose their MedicareAdvantage benefits. This will cause a shortage in primary care with 30 million more patients placed in the system. Some physicians will leave and students will choose different professions. A new industry will emerge to regulate the provisions in the bill. Needless to say this is more complex than saying, "Let's just repeal the bill," the system does need reform by thoughtful leaders.

After talking extensively to Mr. Rhodes, I realize he has an understanding of this legislation and its ramifications that I have not seen in the other candidates. He has a logitudinal approach having spent years as a Congressional chief of staff. He has experienced how this health care dilemma has evolved. As a CEO managing pension funds of thousands, he understands money, service and knows what it is like to balance a budget. We need someone who not only understands this complex legislation, but someone who knows how to work within a broken system, someone who can clearly communicate and inform his constituents.

Mr. Rhodes is a servant leader. Mr. Rhodes not only will work to change this legislation but has the ideas to make the real changes we need... physician/ patient involvement in the process, personal responsibility and tort and insurance reform. Health care is too important of an issue to take lightly.

We desperately need "statesmen" and not more politicians to make the necessary changes. If this is not "done right" we will all suffer for years to come. Don't take my word for it, become involved as well. The stakes are higher than ever. Make the time and get to know Art Rhodes.

James L. Marcum M.D.

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I agree with Dr. Marcum. We definitely need someone who understands health care and how to work within the current system we all live under. Health care spending makes up a large portion of out economy and touches or will touch each individual in our district.

Is Art Rhodes the candidate to best address this issue? I don't know. At least he does not seem to be involved in all the "petty" politics going on at this moment in this race. There are so many candidates, we as citizens need to take the time to make an informed choice and not vote for a sign, a clever ad, a radio notice, or a party favorite. This elected individual will be representing us for a long time.

Bill Thomas
Ooltewah

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The candidates have been talking about each other more than the issues lately. Sure they mention earmarks and immigration, but the solution to healthcare should be at the forefront. I agree with Van Irion in that the current Washington crowd, especially the health care legislation is pushing our country toward socialism.

I thank Dr. Marcum for emphasizing this issue. More healthcare leaders should be speaking out. With one in six dollars going to healthcare and Americans getting sicker and older, how we handle this is critical to the economy and the future of our country.

I am hearing about how candidates have lived in the past, but I want them to talk about specifics they can offer to get our country back on track. Who can write a piece of legislation? Who can influence and change the current system? Who can do what is right under the influences of Washington? Who can work with the other side? In the last week of the campaign, this is what I want to hear about so I can make an informed decision on who will be representing my future.

Jan Mitchum
Chattanoooga