Evolution of Healthcare Systems and Patient Rights

The chapter traces the historical evolution of doctor-patient relationships and the healthcare system from the early 19th century to modern times. It highlights the challenges practitioners faced in the past, the legal breakthroughs in healthcare such as Medicare and Medicaid, the impact on reducing uninsured Americans, and the issues of medical debt and patient rights. The narrative also explores the rise of third-party collection agencies, the disconnect between debt collectors and healthcare, and a unique tactic by the Debt Collective to challenge shadowy debt markets.