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Readers Write for Monday, Oct. 5

October 5, 2009 at 5:17PM

FLU SHOT RIGHT AWAY

But don't expect it to be a simple transaction

I stopped by my corner pharmacy when I noticed they were administering flu shots and found that I could have it taken care of right away. I submitted both my Medicare card and supplement insurance card. Charge for the shot was $24.99.

After a few minutes, the nurse giving the shots said that the claim had been denied -- no reason given. I said to go ahead with the shot as long as I was there.

When I returned home, I called my insurance company to inquire about the denial, and was told that since it was a pharmacy instead of my doctor's office, they couldn't process the claim. But she would mail me a form to fill out and once they received it along with my flu shot receipt, I would be reimbursed.

Just for the fun of it, I called my doctor's office and asked how much they charge for a flu shot. I was told $54 or $58, depending on whether the formula has preservatives.

So, why is insurance and health care so expensive? Here you are, folks; this is one of the reasons.

HARRIET PHILLIPS, MINNETONKA

Kidney Donations

Let government run reimbursement system

This past spring, I was fortunate to be able to donate a kidney to my cousin who had been on dialysis for more than two years. I say fortunate because it was an incredibly positive experience. I also was fortunate in that my cousin and I live in the same city, a city with a transplant center, and I was able to take time off for the surgery with little financial impact.

For many potential donors this is not the case. Travel expenses and lost wages are a reality. The argument in favor of a government-administered system of reimbursement for such donors (a system that would save the government money while it addresses the needs of so many needy patients) makes a tremendous amount of sense.

AIMEE BISSONETTE, RICHFIELD

School Closings

Instead, consider redrawing the districts

Reading the articles on school building overcapacity in the Anoka-Hennepin School District, I was struck with the lack of discussion of the larger areas surrounding them.

The district boundaries were established in a far different time and, except for individual family decisions to change districts through free choice laws, have not changed. Should part of the changes that follow censuses be to adjust boundaries of schools districts, and perhaps other artificial governments? Certainly looking at the map of the Anoka district one wonders if some of the schools could be used if their boundaries were adjusted or perhaps the abutting districts should take part of the Anoka district and available schools.

RAY SCHMITZ, ROCHESTER

•••

I am relieved and grateful that my son's school (Monroe Elementary) was spared being cut by the Anoka-Hennepin School Board last week.

However, having been through school closings in another state, I also am mindful of the pain, confusion and upheaval being felt by parents, students, teachers and staff of those schools that were closed. To them, I extend my sympathy and support.

KATHY ACKERMAN, BROOKLYN PARK

Where's Pawlenty?

Fair to ask, but move beyond the question

It is a valid question about a governor who is often away. The question is asked by both friends and foes. I remember a group going to a bishop with a similar complaint, "You are spending too much time on concerns beyond our people here. You need to stay home more." Gov. Jesse Ventura faced similar criticism.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty is an effective leader. Frankly, I disagree with his leadership where it has put financial binds on our schools and city governments. If there is a crisis, I am certain the governor will be here and will lead effectively. In the meantime, leave him alone out there. Now is a good time for some others here at home to cast a new Minnesota vision.

THE REV. JOEL V. XAVIER,

TRIMONT, MINN.

Where the vikings play

'Let Zygi build stadium' is unrealistic solution

Whether or not we name our new stadium "The Brett Favre Memorial Stadium," we have to keep the issue open and active. 2011 is getting close.

Many critics argue that the owners of the Vikings should pay for their own stadium. At first glance this appears to have some merit, but let's also recognize there is a good reason why most team owners don't own sports facilities. Stadiums are illiquid and the investment is tied up for generations. In addition, the 55 percent estate tax (2011 and later) has to be raised from other assets.

Stadiums that serve multiple purposes should be owned by a governmental agency. This is how the Metrodome operates and how it's done around the country.

When rich farmers complain that they have all their assets in land and have to sell half of the land to pay estate taxes, we sympathize. When owners of closely held companies have to sell out to pay their estate taxes, we sympathize. You can't sell half a stadium to pay estate taxes.

We can all agree that a new stadium now will cost a lot less than it will later (especially if we have to attract a new team).

FRED W. BASSINGER, EDINA