In an effort to reduce health care costs, Penn State University, being self-insured have come up with a program where faculty and staff must complete and pass a wellness profile or face a $100/month increase in the employee portion of the health care costs.
Being somewhat frugal, and very loyal to PSU, a person I hold very dear went to do her duty and complete the profile. A woman at the desk takes the necessary information and then proceeds with her weight, height and the all-important waist measurement.
“Hmm, I see your Body mass index is 28 and with your waist you are borderline obese. I will have to enroll you in an exercise regimen.”
“I do not want to start exercising in my condition”
“Well then here is a list of dieting instructions”
“I am not going on a diet in my condition”
“well, there is no way I can qualify you for passing the wellness profile. I will have to refer you to the counselor”
Later at the counselor.
“Hmm, I see your Body mass index is 28 and with your waist you are borderline obese. I will have to enroll you in an exercise regimen.”
“I do not want to start exercising in my condition”
“Well then here is a list of diets you can choose from”
“I am not going on a diet in my condition. I am seven months pregnant!!”
“So you say, but at your age and BMI and waist measurement you are at significant higher risk for heart disease and other complications.”
“Can’t you see I am pregnant?”
“I only have my computer glasses on so I cannot verify your condition. Besides, it is not for me to determine. Come back in three months. Then we can see if the situation has changed. Have a good day!”
And this isn’t even Obamacare!
Len Bilén's blog, a blog about faith, politics and the environment. 