Letters to the Editor: May 2009

Health care caution

Before we get too taken by outcome-based medicine [“The New Face of Health Care,” April], beware of the unintended consequences. We have fought long and hard to have the right to choose or refuse treatment options. This will quickly disappear if the doctor or hospital can claim that my choice is less effective, and thus costs more.—Frank Deits, Ridgecrest, Calif.

Penny-wise, but …

I’ve lived like Sky Yardley and Jane Dwinell [“Fabulously Frugal”]. I’ve hung clothes on the line, getting chapped, sore fingers in winter. I’ve helped carry wood for the stove. I didn’t call it “thrifty.” I called it necessity. I, personally, wouldn’t repeat it.—Judith Pelowski, Red Oak, Texas

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