Healthcare: How Did We Get Here?

I keep coming back to the healthcare topic not just because as I write this, the Senate is about to start debate on the proposed new plan. No, I keep coming back to this topic because it affects every single American whether or not you currently have coverage. If you do, you are seeing your premiums (or at least your contribution) go up by double digits almost every year and if you don’t have coverage, we who do are paying your freight. This madness has to end.

But you may have wondered as did I how we ever got into this mess in the first place. How and why was our health insurance system first started through employers? What are the various roles of insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, medical facilities and physicians in this complex mix? Who is really calling the shots and what needs to be done to right the system?

These are questions that should be of interest to all regardless of what side of the aisle you sit.

Fortunately, I can point you in the right direction. It will take 2 hours of your life but given the gravity of the situation, it might be helpful to have this background information before you start sending letters to your congressional representative pleading with them to vote one way or the other.

The NPR radio show “The American Life” hosted by Ira Glass has investigated the healthcare issue from a historical perspective right up to the current crisis. I guarantee you that you will learn plenty from these two shows that you most likely did not know. I certainly did.

I challenge you to listen to these two show and then let me know what you think so we can have an informed dialogue. I assure you that it will be well worth your time.

The first program explains why costs keep rising.


The second program goes deeper into the healthcare insurance industry. You need to hear this.

Remember, I want to hear from you. Comment to this blog, send me an e-mail or pick up the phone. Let’s talk healthcare. It’s a subject we can all relate to.



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