Barry: You might want to screen your people props a little better...

First, I offer my prayers for a complete and full recovery for Natoma Canfield. But it would be remiss not to mention (as the President opted not too) that she is in the hospital getting the treatment she needs and is all but certain to get financial assistance through the hospital or charity group and/or Medicaid. And the Cleveland Clinic is not going to force her to pay or die, nor choose between her home or medical treatment.

Natoma Canfield, the cancer-stricken woman who has become a centerpiece of President Obama's push for health care reform, will not lose her home over her medical bills and will probably qualify for financial aid, a top official at the Cleveland medical center treating her told FoxNews.com. [note: I made a quick search of the other major news outlets and it doesn't appear any of them are eager to knock off Obama's halo on this story ~ Kevin]

Though Canfield's sister Connie Anderson said her sibling is afraid she’ll lose her house and Obama warned at an Ohio rally Monday that the patient is “racked with worry” about the cost of tests and treatment, she is already being screened for financial help.

Lyman Sornberger, executive director of patient financial services at the Cleveland Clinic, said “all indications” at the outset are that she will be considered for assistance.

“She may be eligible for state Medicaid … and/or she will be eligible for charity (care) of some form or type. … In my personal opinion, she will be eligible for something,” he said, adding that Canfield should not be worried about losing her home.

“Cleveland Clinic will not put a lien on her home,” he said. [note: Cleveland Clinic is a NOT for profit hospital, but no hospital will turn you away for inability to pay in an emergency situation and in a case like Natoma's every hospital will work with you to find financial aid or charity or get you on medicade. ~ Kevin]

Mr. President, you might want to ask your staff (such as it is) to screen these people a little better before you stir the pot at these rallies. I know, I know the only thing that matters is that the story sounds good. Alright then... go for it.

via Ace of Spades HQ