Something is not quite right in overall planning when it comes to health care for Bermuda's seniors. There have been concerns for some time that a number of seniors, for whatever reason, have been left in a type of no man's land with no where to turn for proper health coverage.

The term Future Care means nothing to people who are in dire need of health care now.

Complicating this is that the Government scheme will now provide for those who meet the requirements, while others will be brought on board in another phase of the programme.

All that sounds very meaningful and is probably well intentioned, but brings no comfort who are astuck on the outside looking in. Many of our seniors lack the stamina, ability or willingness to openly challenge or question efforts they feel fall short in meeting some of their crucial needs.

This is a problem that rises above party politics because it heavily affects those who need the most protection at the sunset stages of their lives. Most Bermudians, especially those from the old school, have a quiet dignity and are not willing to admit they need help. Many of these people have toiled over the years, and while there are seniors who are quite comfortable, others silently try to cope in a world that seems insensitive to their plight.

While Future Care maybe a step in the right direction, there seem to be many questions hanging out there over how it is being implemented. Few Governments in democratic societies admit to mistakes, and there are times when mistakes are made, but are quickly covered by statements like "we knew there might be a few problems but we can work them out.

Those comments make good headlines, but for those seniors in the waiting line for health care it could be a nightmare on a daily basis as to how they will manage ,since few can afford the rates offered by private firms.

Health care has been a crucial issue in the United States for many years with bitter political battles over how to implement a system that moves beyond citizens missing out on proper treatment, because they simply cannot afford it.

The late Senator Ted Kennedy spent much of his political career fighting this problem. He often stated that health care is not a privilege but a right. President Obama taking up the challenge, is fully aware that the battle involves powerful insurance companies, the giant pharmaceutical world, and the overall US economy. The President seems committed to the idea that proper health care should not be restricted to the wealthy.

Of course the situation can be quite complex in a nation this size, but here in Bermuda with such a small population too many issues of importance become political bouncing balls.

Whether we like it or not, Bermuda has become a very noisy place with little sensitivity for those seniors who came from a quieter period, that included more respect for one another. These are real people who deserve the best the country can offer.

It would be true to say most seniors appreciate every effort that already has been made to make their lives better, but it would also be true to say that much more could be done to improve the situation, especially in the vital area of health care. These people should not feel guilty for existing.

The Government has a lot on its plate with crime and punishment becoming a major concern among many, attitude problems that spill over on hour roads placing others at risk, and a limping tourism industry that has affected lives across the board. All this, and people waking up mornings wondering if they still have a job.

But Governments are expected to lead when things are going good and when they are not so good. That is their responsibility, and as long they are in the drivers seat, they are obligated to ensure we are moving in the right direction. Only the people will be the judges of that.

Not one senior who has made a contribution to this country should be gazing out of a window wondering "who will speak for my needs". They see the mass structures going up throughout the City, and how large sums are poured into entertainment functions and while they might not be financial experts, they sense an imbalance in priorities.

Hopefully the best brains from both sides of the political divide will home in on crucial issues for the good of the country and place the people including our seniors, above party allegiance.