We all know someone without health insurance–the type who calls wondering if you’ve got any antibiotics left over from that nasty bout with tonsillitis. A lot of those people are musicians. A few years ago Rock A Mole Productions conducted a yearlong survey that found nearly 96 percent of musicians struggled to secure regular health care. The cruel irony, of course, is that they often play benefits for friends.
Over forty-five million people in the U.S. were uninsured in 2007, a number that continues to climb as unemployment rates increase and policies become more costly. Health care reform has been a hot topic over the past month as President Obama pushes for a massive overhaul, including the much-debated government-run public option.
Though there are a few resources at their fingertips, everything from unhealthy food on the road to that undisclosed rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle can cause concern for the uninsured musician. Let’s just say your favorite artists probably have a vested interest in how Congress votes on the reform bill this fall–here are a few with a stance on the subject.
5. Despite trailing even Cuba when it comes to health care, KaiserCartel predict Obama is going to get things up and running in America.
4. Some musicians have–gasp!–families. And those are expensive, particularly when it comes to keeping them healthy. Wild Sweet Orange witnessed firsthand the price tag that is placed on human life.
3. Kristin of Rock For Health knows exactly what you’re going through. Ever had a sore throat in San Francisco? Or felt a little down in Happy, Texas? This organization specializes in helping musicians no matter where they are.
2. Luke Doucet breaks down the famed Canadian health care we’re always hearing about (and always jealous of).
1. For universal health care, Kid Sister would part ways with some extra cold hard cash. You work, you pay taxes, you get taken care of. That’s sort of what the United States is about.
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