"I'd never want him in my house as a dinner guest, but he makes an excellent point."

That was my friend's one-line review after seeing Michael Moore's new movie, "Sicko." He's not a fan of the obvious liberal bias that pervades Moore's movies, nor of the documentarian's pushiness, smugness, or even the ever-present baseball cap which effects such a "schleppy" appearance, as my great aunt would say. But appearances and demeanor and unattractive headwear aside, no matter how much you might like or dislike Moore himself, the issue he raises should be of great concern for each and every American: Our health care system is overdue for a major check-up.

Health care concerns have been foremost in my mind recently, as my new job offers the wonderful benefit of three health insurance plans to choose from. But which plan, I wonder, will be best for my health? Each has a dizzying array of co-pays, deductibles, partial benefits, and lifetime maximums. If I choose this plan, my brand name medications will be covered. If I choose that plan, my office visit co-pays will be lower. The third plan has a $2,000 yearly deductible but offers an unlimited tongue depressor and lollipop benefit - a very tempting option.

It doesn't make sense, though, that these health insurance plans seem to penalize me simply for getting sick. In fact, they can even promote unhealthy behaviors. Who among us has put off a doctor appointment or a check-up because the co-pay was too expensive? Guilty, your honor. Who has lied to a medical professional for fear that admitting to a chronic condition would increase your premiums? Guilty again. And who, upon becoming sick or injured, feared less for your own health and well-being and more for the dreaded medical bills that would soon accumulate? It's a shame that here in America while our taxes pay for primary education, fire and police protection, and libraries, access to adequate medical treatment is considered merely a privilege for the employed and affluent, not a right for all.

While much can be said for the high quality of our medical professionals and technology, the fact is that America clearly lags behind most other industrialized countries in regards to overall health outcomes. The citizens of Canada, Japan, and Italy enjoy longer life expectancies than Americans. France, Germany, and Norway have lower infant mortality rates. Spain, Ireland, and Sweden have lower maternal mortality rates. And the quality of England's soccer teams put ours to shame - though we might have just made a huge step forward with David Beckham's arrival in L.A. Love him, hate him, or detest his schleppiness, Moore will get you thinking about America's need for universal health care. Whether you agree or disagree, I'd be very interested to hear your opinions. In the meantime, use the ballot box to pressure your elected officials to keep this issue at the forefront of our collective political consciousness. And don't you dare take any of my free tongue depressors.

BILL ZUCK has a life expectancy of 126 years, thanks to his healthy diet and his delusional belief that 90 is the new 30. You can reach him at wcz78@yahoo.com.