Co-Ops Work For Many Things, Including Healthcare

(CNN) Farmers Say co-ops work for feed, seed and healthcare

“My coverage is excellent,” Topel said. He pays $1,300 a month – not cheap – but he says it is reasonable given his high blood pressure, his wife’s high cholesterol and the premium benefits he selected, including coverage for any accidents or injuries that occur on the farm.

Besides, Topel says, when he sees such cooperatives working – there are a dozen health care cooperatives here in Wisconsin alone – it makes him all the more hesitant to think there is a need for a new government-run public option.

Summary: Before instituting another poorly run government program, let’s see about some private alternatives, like co-ops for purchasing health insurance. The co-ops can be just like employer purchased health insurance (mass pool of people negotiating together for better rates), or can take other routes to provide healthcare.