In the PBS Blog “Healthcare: America vs. the World”, viewers were introduced to a comparison of the US Health system versus other systems which have adapted different ways of addressing health equity and equality. From the UK to Switzerland, Australia and Canada, common themes of universal healthcare and government price limits on those services highlighted areas of opportunity to provide care to marginalized groups. Through various interviews with both professionals and citizens, the pros and cons of these healthcare systems were explored as a way to further the conversation about possible opportunities for the US.
In the UK, health care is provided for all, but provided for through the National Health Service. While the government’s control of insurance prices makes the services affordable, people may also get put on a waiting list to receive those benefits for certain services. In Switzerland there are various choices of private insurance, which is required for all (or else a financial penalty) but it can be costly. Australia has a hybrid method of government and private insurance that is designed to balance itself out, and Canada’s universal healthcare system still leaves some areas of marginalized patients.
As I listened to each country’s responses about the types of healthcare received, each time I found myself thinking “if we could just put something similar in place”. The idea of “healthcare as a right” seems basic, but in a country divided by political groups, the idea of a unified system seems impossible. When the Affordable Care Act was put in place, it was met with much resistance, and over time that has continued. There are some who want it repealed, some who want it expanded, and other views that make it difficult for our government leaders to come to an agreement on how to improve our system. Discussions around other options continue, but it seems unlikely that there will ever be full consensus on a plan. One example of a proposal is that of Medicare for All, which would turn the US into a one-payer health system. This can be daunting though – it would require a large upfront investment, but this price could potentially still be less than current coverage expenditures.
Healthcare expenses are high while outcomes are still less than desired, and large sections of our nation struggle financially. Each day, many residents face choices between food, housing, transportation, and other basic necessities. Social disparities worsen these barriers for those in certain race, financial and/or income groups. During the COVD pandemic, access to supplies, food, and health care was more limited for many due to risk of viral spread, lockdowns and shortages in both supplies and resources. Cultural differences contributed to response of individuals, based on health beliefs and behavior choices, while other social determinants such as poverty level, limited job options, housing issues and food barriers also set the stage for how the pandemic was perceived and responded to in various groups.
In our country, determining how to move forward with providing health care coverage to citizens will be one of the key factors in establishing resources and a certain level of care that can be provided. Not only do individuals need coverage but caregivers and healthcare workers need to be able to provide the care necessary to keep our communities safe, without the constant scrutiny of whether an insurance group will reimburse or whether we got the prior authorization completed in time. It would be great to be able to incorporate some of the lessons learned from other countries’ health care systems, but it seems that we still have a long way to go as a nation before we will find a resolution that ensures access to equitable healthcare for everyone.
Hi Layne!
I enjoyed reading your insights and review on the PSB film: Critical Care vs. The World. I do agree that it will be difficult to implement Medicare for All because of the large upfront costs. However, I do think that in the long run it will benefit those that are in need. Lakeisha’s case and a point you stated is that many individuals have to choose between food, gas and everyday expenses over medical bills or any medical expense. This is something that I have seen first hand with my family and it is detrimental to our physical and mental health. It is very difficult to see the UK’s system and not have some doubts about our healthcare system. The quote that “it is never too expensive” stuck out to me because it is the complete opposite in the U.S. I believe that a new plan will help fill this gap of individuals that cannot get coverage. Switzerland has a great plan in place for those that may lose their jobs, they will still have health insurance because it is separated from their jobs. I do think that this is a plan that the U.S. should consider because many people go through a domino effect when they lose their jobs. This system could help that domino effect from happening in one area at least. A new way of thinking is definitely overdue for the U.S. healthcare system and I believe that some inspiration on the countries listed in the video would be beneficial to consider.
“A new way of thinking is definitely overdue for the U.S. healthcare system….” – Ashley, you’re spot on!