Should the family be financially compensated for the HeLa cells?
Tough question. On an emotional level I'd say yes. But realistically, where would the money come from? There are so many organizations and individuals all around the world that have profited from the HeLa cells -- where would the Lacks family even begin to start collecting? From Johns Hopkins? What should the family do -- contact every business that dealt with the HeLa cells or any person whose illnesses have been cured or prevented and demand compensation? And what would be fair compensation? And to do this, they'll have to pay legal fees that they can't afford. I think it's tough to give a simple yes or no to this question.
Now that the story is out and very public, it might be a good call for Johns Hopkins to offer to provide free medical care for the family in perpetuity.
As far as health insurance, I think every person in this country should have health insurance and access to quality health care.