AARP agrees with New York Financial Services Superintendent Benjamin Lawsky's op-ed, "Set up insurance exchange -- stat!" [March 22].
A health benefit exchange would help millions of New Yorkers as well as small businesses gain access to affordable, quality health insurance.
Over the last several months, AARP surveyed New Yorkers about establishing a health benefits exchange. Respondents clearly indicated their desire for affordable health insurance. This need is underscored by one disturbing survey finding; among those age 50 to 64, many are making heartbreaking decisions by skipping visits to the doctor, not filling prescriptions, or skipping doses in order to afford medicine and health care. These actions inevitably will lead to declining health.
The survey also found strong support among people 30 to 64 years old for Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's call to establish a health benefit exchange. Those who work for small businesses were three times more likely to lack insurance coverage than those who work for larger companies.
Failure to implement a state health exchange would be a shameful reversal of New York's long-standing record of helping its citizens access health care when they need it.
Joan Parrott-Fonseca, Manhattan
Editor's note: The writer is the New York State director of the AARP.
