The COVID-19 pandemic has dispelled any illusions that despite its high costs, America has the best health care system in the world. The coronavirus death rate is six times higher for Americans than other rich countries.
The shortcomings of America’s health care system include the extreme vulnerability of the elderly in nursing homes; the poor health of impoverished and minority communities; and a lack of basic medical equipment and surge capacity in hospitals.
There’s never been a better time to reform the health care system. The first step is to build on the foundation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to finish the job of universal coverage. But more change is needed: We need to drive down the exorbitant cost of medical treatment in America, which drives up insurance costs, lowers wages, and in order to have resources to invest social programs that promote good health.
Read Full Article »