The health care reform discussion continues. There are many different ideas being considered. Central to many of the proposals is the creation of a government-run insurance plan that every American could purchase. The cost or coverage of such a plan has not been revealed.

One that concerns me is a plan that would eliminate health insurance agents and brokers. Some lawmakers have even proposed that there be established a national government-run call center, similar to the one in place for Medicare, to deal with patient coverage concerns.

Choosing a health care plan or even filing a claim is complicated. Learning the ins and outs of a particular policy can be a full-time job. I work with health plans on a daily basis and work to find a plan that will fit a person’s needs within the area of service. Consumers and businesses need health insurance agents and brokers to help them navigate the increasingly complex health care marketplace.

Some politicians would like to drive health insurance agents out of business and replace them with distant government bureaucrats. These critics claim that removing them from the process of choosing a health plan would trim the administrative costs of insurance without significantly impacting ordinary consumers. They are wrong.

Imagine if you were barred from using a real estate agent when you sold your home — agents and brokers help people make better choices in all kinds of industries.

Health insurance agents and brokers help ensure that consumers and employers have access to an array of affordable insurance options. Plans are tailored to their needs.

Once consumers have obtained coverage, they can turn to an agent or broker for assistance processing claims, resolving billing concerns, filing appeals and securing the maximum benefits they are entitled to. The advocacy is particularly important after a serious medical event; the patient can concentrate on getting well knowing that their agent is there to assist with any claim problems if they occur.

The agent or broker is also there to review and, if necessary, change the plan options as life situations change. A recent survey found that 75 percent of people insured were very satisfied with the services of their agent.

A recent investigation by the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging found many problems with calling the 1-800-MEDICARE call center. Among the committee’s official findings: confusing interactive voice menus, long wait times during calls, frequent disconnections and inappropriate referrals.

When it comes to personalized service, a faceless federal bureaucracy cannot replace the services and dedication of professional health insurance agents and brokers.

Whatever the final outcome of health care reform, we must keep private insurance companies and local agents and brokers as part of the plans.

Changes made to the programs will affect each one of us and we must urge our representatives to carefully consider the impact of any bill that is presented for a vote and to take the necessary time to get the best possible outcome for all.

Jan Jerdee is an agent for Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Minnesota and is a member of the Freeborn County Republican Party.