Healthcare Reform

Healthcare Reform

From Theodore Roosevelt to Donald Trump, the health care landscape in the United States has undergone considerable reforms. However, the work is not yet done as to the delivery of affordable and accessible health care services. Policymakers continue to work on viable solutions to the healthcare delivery paradox. The public can only find comfort in the fact that the government and the private sector are exhausting all efforts to come up with a more comprehensive healthcare reform program.

The Issue of Rising Healthcare Costs

According to recent estimates, up to 2 million Americans suffer from medical bankruptcies. The continuing rise of health care costs has put a dent in the federal budget. Compared to other First World countries, health care costs in the US costs twice as much per person. It accounts for up to 17.8 percent of the country’s GDP.

Technological advances in the healthcare system are one of the reasons why there is a ballooning of health care costs. These innovative procedures can save lives. However, they are also very expensive. Another reason is the increase in malpractice lawsuits. Doctors often order certain procedures so they don’t get accused of negligence. The other reason for high health care costs in the US is less price competition. Most individuals do not shop for doctors, medical procedures, and laboratory tests.

The Need for Healthcare Reform

Reforming the delivery of healthcare can also improve the overall quality of care. Despite being a developed country, the US has the worst record in terms of chronic diseases. These affect 45 percent of Americans, causing 70 percent of all deaths in the US. An aging population means the incidence rates of diabetes and cancer will also grow. Reforming the healthcare system now can help mitigate the rise in these preventable diseases.

One in four Americans has little to no health insurance coverage. Healthcare reforms can address this issue, too. Another concern is the increasing number of healthcare fraud. Every year, $60 billion to $200 billion are lost to fraud.

Healthcare Reform in Recent Years

Former President Bill Clinton introduced the Health Security Act in 1993. The law offered universal healthcare coverage. Unfortunately, the bill did not materialize.

Ex-President Barack Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in 2010. The law phased-in a number of health care benefits while also extending health insurance coverage. Small businesses benefited from subsidies. The elderly also enjoyed subsidies for the purchase of prescription drugs.

President Donald Trump, meanwhile, signed an executive order that calls for the availability of health care prices to consumers. It is not yet a law but is a healthcare reform nonetheless.

The healthcare delivery system in the US is far from the ideal. However, Americans can find comfort in the fact that both the public and private sector are working to craft a more comprehensive health program for everyone.

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