The Rest Is Politics: US 49. How to fix a broken system: American healthcare in crisis
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Dec 13, 2024 Explore the systemic failures within the U.S. healthcare system, ignited by the shocking assassination of a healthcare CEO. The discussion dives deep into public frustration over healthcare access and costs. Personal stories reveal the emotional toll of isolation and bureaucratic inefficiencies. The podcast also navigates the turbulent waters of political appointments and implications for military recruitment, all while questioning the effectiveness of American foreign policy in a rapidly changing global landscape.
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US Healthcare History
- The US healthcare system is capitalistic; Truman's post-WWII attempt at nationalization failed due to Republican and AMA opposition.
- Medicare and Medicaid were introduced in 1965 for the very poor, leaving an insurance-based system for others.
Affordable Care Act Impact
- The Affordable Care Act mandates insurance policies, but insurance companies offset costs through denials, increased premiums, and deductibles.
- This leads to large bills and struggles with reimbursements, even for insured individuals, causing widespread anger.
Healthcare Struggles
- Katty Kay shares her ongoing struggle with UnitedHealthcare over an MRI bill, highlighting systemic reimbursement issues.
- An anecdote illustrates a woman whose insurance wouldn't cover an air ambulance for her critically ill baby, showcasing the dire consequences.
