Why Mandatory Universal Health Care is a Bad Idea in the United States?

One might wonder why the United States, known for its exceptionalism, resists the concept of universal health care, especially considering the successes and widespread acceptance in other countries. This resistance is often rooted in various misconceptions and experiences with the current health care system in the U.S.

Taking a Closer Look at Health Care Systems Globally

There is a common belief that no country that has adopted mandatory universal health care wishes to revert. The United States stands apart in its resistance, reflecting the disproportionate influence of plutocracy in the country. This phenomenon results from a deep-seated belief that not just mandatory universal health care, but every form of government intervention in the private sector is detrimental.

A Personal Perspective: The Disadvantages of High-Deductible Health Plans

My own experience as an individual employed by a large corporation sheds light on the challenges faced with high-deductible health plans. I have a well-paying job and an excellent health plan, a High-Deductible Health Savings Account (HSA) supported by United Healthcare. I contribute 5000 annually in premiums, with my employer contributing significantly more. This plan forces me to cover a substantial amount of expenses before my insurance kicks in, which is more than what most older individuals can comfortably afford.

My family and I were forced to switch to this plan several years ago during an uncertain time in our lives, specifically when we both turned 50. Despite maxing out our legal HSA contributions each year, we have never been able to save due to medical expenses. We aren't particularly unwell, but the burden of high-deductible plans can be significantly more challenging for those with common health issues.

Case Study: Medicaid and its Benefits

To illustrate the stark difference, consider my nephew's situation. His parents died while he was facing serious health challenges, leading to his early entry into Medicaid. The program was designed for his specific needs, and I do not hold any resentment towards it.

A year ago, both my nephew and I were admitted to the hospital with acute illnesses. I, with my American corporate insurance plan, faced several thousand dollars in hospital and doctor bills above my insurance coverage. In addition, I incurred additional costs for several months worth of prescription medications. This financial strain effectively depleted my HSA account, leaving me with a growing sense of frustration and dissatisfaction with the system.

Conversely, my nephew, enrolled in Medicaid, managed his treatment without any perceived financial obligations. He focused on recovery with no dispute over costs, emphasizing the significant difference between the public and private healthcare systems in the U.S.

The Call for Universal Healthcare: Curing What Ails Us?

Given the experiences outlined, it becomes clear why the question ‘Why don’t we all want it to work this way?’ is so relevant. Despite the aforementioned advantages of universal healthcare, why do we cling to a system that disproportionately affects the elderly and those navigating more complex medical situations? Why does the U.S. stand alone in its resistance to a system that has proven effective in other countries? This situation puzzles and frustrates many Americans, as it goes against the very idea of social equity and collective responsibility.

It is time for a reflective discussion on how we can reform our healthcare system to ensure better equity and financial stability for all citizens, aligning more closely with the standards set by more progressive nations. Whether it's universal coverage or significant reforms to high-deductible health plans, the path forward is clear – aligning with global standards for better health and financial peace of mind for all Americans.

In conclusion, while it is important to critically evaluate the effectiveness of universal healthcare, the experiences share a common thread – the need to rethink and improve the current system to better serve the populace. The question isn’t just about resistance to change, but a genuine inquiry into what really works and benefits the health and well-being of all individuals.