Introduction

The United States boasts one of the most advanced medical systems in the world, yet it continues to struggle with providing affordable healthcare for all its citizens. This disparity has been a longstanding issue, with the power dynamics between insurance companies, politicians, and medical practitioners playing a significant role. Despite the government's willingness to pass substantial relief measures, such as the 2.2 trillion dollar relief bill, the path to universal healthcare remains fraught with obstacles. This article delves into the complexities surrounding the lack of affordable healthcare and explores why, despite the availability of funds, universal healthcare has remained elusive.

Power Dynamics Hindering Healthcare Reform

The crux of the problem lies in the immense power wielded by insurance companies, which often overshadow the influence of politicians and healthcare workers combined. In a landscape where insurance companies hold significant sway, it is easier for them to control the narrative and push for measures that benefit their interests rather than the broader population. This imbalance of power explains why even when the government is willing to allocate massive funds, such as the aforementioned 2.2 trillion relief bill, the implementation of universal healthcare remains challenging.

If we ever manage to unite our collective strength and diminish the influence of the trillion-dollar insurance industry, we can pave the way for universal healthcare. However, this requires a massive shift in power dynamics, which has proven difficult to achieve in a highly polarized political environment.

Cost and Financial Considerations

Proponents of universal healthcare argue that despite the high costs, it is a necessary step to ensure equitable access to medical care. For instance, Bernie Sanders' proposed universal healthcare system is estimated to cost between 3.5 to 5.2 trillion dollars annually. However, government cost estimates are often understated, and the actual costs may be much higher. This reality underscores the critical need for comprehensive planning and transparent budgeting.

Despite the substantial financial resources available, the healthcare system's infrastructure faces significant challenges. For example, even after the conclusion of the epidemic, the supply of doctors is unlikely to increase. Many doctors already work long hours, and simply doubling their salaries may not result in an increase in healthcare workers. This conundrum highlights the need for a nuanced approach that addresses both financial and manpower issues.

Barriers to Affordable Care

Beyond the power dynamics and cost considerations, there are other factors that contribute to the high costs of healthcare in the United States. The recent 2.2 trillion relief bill and generous tax breaks for billionaires illustrate the resources available. However, Republican obstructionism and right-wing media narratives have prevented common-sense spending measures from being enacted. This political gridlock often results in a focus on short-term solutions rather than long-term reforms.

The current healthcare system in the United States is characterized by high costs and complex billing processes. For instance, a simple procedure that could have been handled as an outpatient visit was billed at over 9000 dollars, while the same insurance paid around 900 dollars for overnight observation. This overcharging is exacerbated by hospitals' ability to mark up prices for medicines and services, leading to a system where insurance companies negotiate costs down, rather than controlling costs themselves.

Moreover, the trend of escalating costs is evident, even for treatments that have remained unchanged. The same Sandostatin LAR injection that cost 4100 dollars when Donald Trump took office now costs 6200 dollars, without any changes in the medication. This suggests that the problem lies not just in specific policies but in the overall structure and attitudes within the medical and insurance industries.

One of the reasons why universal healthcare may be challenging to implement is the entrenched attitude within the medical and hospital industries. Countries with universal healthcare systems typically control costs and fees charged by doctors and hospitals. In contrast, the United States allows hospitals to mark up medicines by hundreds or thousands of times over their costs, leading to higher bills and less affordability.

Therefore, for universal healthcare to work in the United States, a comprehensive and fundamental change in attitudes towards the medical and healthcare service industries is necessary. This change must address not just the costs but also the billing practices and the overall structure of the healthcare system.