ORANGE CITY, Iowa -- Despite what some politicians and members of the media may say, the recent vote in the House of Representatives on health care reform was less about politics and more about patients. That’s because the Affordable Health Care for America Act would fundamentally improve the fight against cancer and other diseases.

Obviously three of Iowa’s House members understand this. Congressmen Leonard Boswell, Bruce Braley and Dave Loebsack all put patients ahead of politics and division with their votes in favor of this historic legislation. My congressman, Steve King, regretfully joined Rep. Tom Latham and others in the minority by favoring an alternative proposal that did not come close to meeting the standards supported by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network.

Perhaps they’re unaware that far too many cancer patients are denied coverage because of their pre-existing condition and that many of them skip screenings and treatments because they simply cannot afford them. It saddens me they would choose this status quo over the vast improvements that will come from health care reform.

Nonetheless, as a whole the House was truly representative of its constituents with this vote. The majority of Americans want health care reform and they want it now. Let this be a rallying point for Senators Grassley, Harkin, and their colleagues. Finish the job and help reduce suffering and death. -- John Buntsma