Dear Editor:
In regard to “Concierge Medicine,” we continue to hear the same tiresome arguments from opponents of new and innovative alternatives to the existing largely inefficient—and too often dangerous—health care delivery system.

The one-size-fits-all approach supported by Paul Ginsburg, Representative Ben Cardin, Senator Ben Nelson and their ilk has had the ironic, and surely unwanted, consequence of spurring such alternatives as concierge medicine and consumer-driven health plans, which in turn is driving the physician shortage Ginsburg frets about.

Those who are able to afford and are willing to pay for higher-quality health care services should not be deprived simply because others cannot afford it. If Ginsburg et al think so, would they extend that restriction elsewhere: homes, cars, travel and so on? Sadly, I believe so, and that trend should be resisted.

The truth is that they would rather force everyone to get the same mediocre health care services just to prevent some from choosing better services for themselves and their families. Very disturbing, indeed.

Barbara Hoffman
New York

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A Small Price to Pay
Dear Editor:
As a board member for several nonprofit organizations and an insurance broker, I have a different view to present than the ones offered in “A Free Lunch” (July 2005, page 128).

The issue for me is not the $100 for lunch, but rather getting people to volunteer for reasons other than self-serving ones such as promoting their own business. I believe it is wrong to charge those who volunteer their time and help guide an organization toward bettering a specific cause (e.g., advocacy, education, etc.).
 
There exists only a downside for the volunteer. There is no monetary incentive. And in today’s litigious society, being a board member for a nonprofit organization exposes personal assets to litigation. Though adequate directors and officers coverage may protect one’s assets, there is still the inconvenience and embarrassment involved with litigation.
 
I look for people who are valuable resources to my various organizations. The positive benefits of their work outweigh the costs of meetings. If they do not, perhaps the person is not that valuable.

David Higger
New York

Twelve Generations in Nevada
Dear Editor:
I just read your excellent article, “Mind the Gaps” (July 2005, page 100). I thought you’d be interested to know that I authored a bill this legislative session in Nevada that was just officially signed into law. It allows 365-year dynasty trusts in Nevada, effective October 1, 2005. I was trying for 1,000 years, but the 365-year figure was a result of some extensive negotiation and compromising.
 
Steven J. Oshins, Esq.
Oshins & Associates, Las Vegas

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