A macro and micro view of US Health Care

An issue at the base of the system (me the consumer), and a big, overview of the whole enchilada...

The guy who writes the Health Care blog has written a nice summary of the overarching problems with US health care, you can read it at:
http://abcnews.go.com
Mr. Holt makes an informed case about the problems, and does point out that vested interests will fight any change. The insurance companies, as payers, are the obvious opposition, they benefit in employment and profits from the way things are. The providers (doctors, hospitals) are less obvious. The thinking is that providers get payed no matter who is paying. But Holt points out that there are so many inefficiencies in the system, such that any rational fix will lower payments to the end providers. A majority of doctors see this problem and oppose any fix, but they are not all together on this, witness the Physicians for a National Health Program (www.pnhp.org). Some estimate that 40% of physicians are for a National program, probably to rationalize it and keep more of their power.

Holt's conclusion is that it will take much political will to overcome the opposition, and I think we'll have to wait for 2008 for that to happen.

My trip to my dentist shows a basic problem with the current system in action.

During my last trip for a cleaning I was given an option for a wipe swab in my mouth which would more easily show early signs of oral cancer. Currently, without this option, the doc looks around and tries to see anything unusual. The new option is unproven, but if it works would be a benefit to all...hmm or maybe just to me as the system would possibly lose a full-blown cancer patient - BIG BUCKS!

Now, the hygienist told me if they get enough evidence of success, then the insurers would pay for the procedure. The insurers are not paying for this procedure since evidence is lacking, but why should I pay for research?? Because, if I can afford it, it's to my benefit. But how do I know if it works?? Is $50 cheap enough to make me participate in a study? Not in this case. I have faith in my dentist.

Shouldn't this be the wipe maker's problem? The problem for the maker is they have multiple insurance company payers to deal with, raising costs and squeezing out good but marginal solutions. But is it rational for the maker to ask me and other individuals to pay?? In this crazy market why not?

If we had a single payer system it would be much cleaner, easier and successful for all. A procedure/solution set for all would be defined, and whether the wipe procedure is in or out, and it would only be accepted if proven.