High Costs with Poor Outcomes

The U.S. healthcare system is notable for its high expenditures compared to other high-income countries, yet it fails to achieve universal health coverage or demonstrate superior health outcomes. Metrics such as life expectancy, rates of maternal and infant mortality, and avoidable deaths indicate that despite spending more, the quality of care falls short. For example, the World Health Organization suggests that cesarean section rates should not exceed 10-15%, while the U.S. rate surpasses 30%. This disconnection between spending and outcomes raises critical questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of American healthcare.