The Checkup with Doctor Mike Which Country Has The Best Healthcare? | Dr. Zeke Emanuel
11 snips
Jan 4, 2026 
Dr. Zeke Emanuel, an oncologist and key architect of the Affordable Care Act, dives deep into global healthcare systems and innovations. He highlights the challenges of skyrocketing premiums and the impact of consolidation in healthcare. Emanuel shares insights on AI's role in diagnosis and administrative efficiency, while advocating for targeted health reforms. He praises the healthcare systems of the Netherlands, Germany, and Norway for their emphasis on accessibility. Plus, he discusses dietary insights like the benefits of fiber and moderation in treats like ice cream.
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Complexity Undermines U.S. Health Goals
- The U.S. health system is cracking because of complexity, duplication, and gaming incentives that raise costs.
- Fixing health requires addressing social determinants like food, schools, and environment beyond medical care.
Inside The ACA Experience
- Dr. Zeke Emanuel worked in the Obama administration advising on the Affordable Care Act and saw it passed in 15 months.
- He says the ACA improved coverage and slowed costs but added complexity and left many problems unresolved.
Start With Fast, Practical Reforms
- Implement near-term fixes: cap hospital prices, equalize site payments, and reduce pharmaceutical prices with mandatory price adjustments.
- Tackle administrative waste to reclaim up to a quarter trillion dollars by simplifying the system.
