Congressman Kind is playing a key role in the health care reform debate.  As Congressman Kind searches for solutions to rural America's health care challenges, he needs to hear from rural Wisconsinites, small business owners and family farmers.

Will you write to Congressman Kind about health care reform today?

Our current health care system is not working for rural America. Too often, farmers and rural small business owners are forced to purchase coverage in the individual market where they pay more and receive less. Without adequate health care, rural communities suffer. On the other hand, health care reform that works for all of America will spur entrepreneurial rural development and stimulate our economy.

Here are some talking points to include when you write to Congressman Kind.

• Owner-operated farms, ranches and small businesses dominate the rural economy. Reform must provide options - including the choice of a public health insurance option - for small business and their employees. Thank Congressman Kind for his support of a public health insurance option.

• Wisconsin's web of small rural hospitals and clinics currently receive lower Medicare reimbursement rates than similar facilities in urban areas. In order to deliver quality, innovative care and attract new practitioners, rural facilities must receive fair Medicare reimbursement.

• Expanded wellness and prevention programs are an important part of health care reform. Iowa's Wellness Grant Program, supported by Senator Harkin, is a good example. The program makes grants to communities to support projects that improve public health and wellness. Urge Rep. Kind to help expand opportunities like this to Wisconsin and all of the country.

• Write about your own experience with health care, or the importance of health care reform to your community.

Mail your letter to:

You can also write to the Congressman online at this link:

http://www.kind.house.gov/?sectionid=18&sectiontree=18

Congressman Kind currently serves on the Ways and Means Committee, which will play a major role in deciding the future of health care.  That means Wisconsinites have a powerful voice in this debate.

Please let Virginia Wolking at the Center know if you write to Congressman Kind. Email virginiaw@cfra.org or call 402-687-2103 x1017. Knowing that you wrote helps us track our progress towards health care reform.