Irishman stumps for Obama on health care reform

Mayo man says pay should not be a barrier to good quality health care

He sees his work, as a provider of health care to the uninsured, as a continuation of his mission to help the less fortunate in our society.

“The early Irish immigrants built hospitals and schools to serve those who otherwise would go without health care or education,” he said. “Irish Americans have never forgotten the people left behind.”

Keane is proud of his dedication to advocating for the underprivileged, and feels he is continuing the Kennedy tradition of commitment to social programs.
Even while being honored for his work at Unity Health Care, Keane wants to focus on the issue at hand. Health care reform, he says, remains a high priority for all Americans, especially the uninsured. Therefore it was extra special for him to be able to attend the address to Congress last week.
Following the address, Keane had a one-on-one visit with President Obama.

“Those who were in the box with Mrs. Obama were invited downstairs after the president’s address to meet him. He is just a lovely man,” said Keane.

“It really was quite an honor. He (Obama) was so gracious. I complimented him on his wonderful speech and ensured him that we there to support his efforts.”

Keane told the president, “I am from Ireland, and over there they are checking out your ancestry but that I’m not from your county, Offaly. I'm from Mayo.”

Keane said the president laughed at his remark because he has heard time and time again how Ireland has claimed him as one of its own.

The Mayo man feels that both of the Obamas are “major assets” to the U.S.

“I believe very strongly in what the president is trying to achieve with health care reform,” he said.

Keane, who has seen his fair share of hardship down through the years with Unity Health Care, said it’s imperative that those in power listen to the president and pass a fair and workable health care package as soon as possible.

“I really do believe that common sense will prevail this time, and although I’m sure not everything will be agreed upon the key elements of the program will pass, the elements he outlined in his speech in Congress last week,” Keane feels.

In recent months, with more people losing their jobs and subsequently their health insurance, Keane said that there are many more people utilizing Unity Health Care and not enough resources in place.

“The funding we just got will increase our ability to help more people,” he said.

The largest Unity Health Care building is located in the heart of an immigrant population, said Keane.

“We do serve a tremendous large immigrant population and we don’t every check anyone’s immigration status. We see all comers,” he said.

“Pay is not a barrier. We are required to serve people regardless of ability to pay. If they can pay we have a sliding fee scale according to their income. No one will go unseen for any reason.”

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Nster.com