Roger Ledbetter’s letter in the Oct. 6 edition of the Redmond Reporter rang true for me, as well.

Mr. Ledbetter of Snoqualmie reported having benefited from free, accessible health care while visiting Scotland, and then suggesting that our great nation could likewise provide for all of its people, too, and save money in the process.

My experience happened 11,000 miles southeast of Scotland. Years ago, my wife and I were visiting the south island of New Zealand, which is great in many of the same ways Washington state is. Beautiful coasts, mountains, greenery, good food, good people. I got pretty nervous, though, when my thumb started hurting badly, in a foreign country.

Finally convinced something was wrong, I visited the local clinic. They apologized, but I’d have to wait maybe half an hour to see the doctor! That worked for me. Well, he diagnosed my infection, ordered me some medicine, and wished me well. No charge. Just like police and fire services, they collect taxes and use the money to provide health care to people who need it, even if they’re rich Americans far from home.

The good people of the U.S. deserve the same. I agree with Mr. Ledbetter that we have ways to provide for people, and may even save money in the process.

Rex Rempel

Kirkland