discussion week 6
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Health Science
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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Uploaded by DeaconOxideBuffalo27
In the ongoing discourse surrounding the restructuring of the United States healthcare
system, I firmly stand in support of implementing a single-payer healthcare system. A single-
payer system, where a centralized entity finances healthcare while delivery remains primarily
private, holds substantial potential to address critical issues within the US healthcare landscape.
Firstly, a single-payer system guarantees universal healthcare coverage, ensuring that all
individuals have access to necessary medical services. Studies have consistently shown that
countries with universal healthcare systems, like a single-payer approach, exhibit lower
mortality rates and improved health outcomes (Morgan et al., 2017). Providing healthcare
coverage to all citizens contributes to a healthier nation, mitigates health disparities, and
alleviates the financial strain on families.
Secondly, a single-payer system streamlines administrative processes and substantially
reduces healthcare bureaucracy. The current multi-payer system in the US results in exorbitant
administrative costs, estimated at nearly 8% of total healthcare spending (Woolhandler et al.,
2016). Implementing a single-payer approach drastically simplifies billing, claims processing, and
administrative overhead, allowing for efficient allocation of resources towards patient care.
Thirdly, a single-payer system can negotiate lower drug prices and healthcare service costs.
International examples, such as Canada and the UK, demonstrate that a centralized payer can
effectively negotiate with pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, resulting in
reduced overall healthcare expenditures (Himmelstein & Woolhandler, 2016). Lowering
healthcare costs is pivotal to increasing affordability and accessibility for all citizens. Moreover, a
single-payer system encourages a focus on preventive care and early intervention. By ensuring
that healthcare is accessible and affordable for everyone, individuals are more likely to seek
timely medical attention and preventive measures. Studies emphasize that preventive services
lead to a healthier population and substantial cost savings in the long run (Woolf & Aron, 2013).
Lastly, a single-payer system eradicates economic barriers to healthcare, promoting
equitable access for all citizens. Research has shown that financial barriers deter individuals
from seeking necessary care, leading to delayed treatment and adverse health outcomes
(Sommers & Kronick, 2017). A single-payer system addresses these barriers by ensuring that
financial considerations do not impede access to healthcare services.
References:
1.
Morgan, D. J., Lemak, C. H., Nallamothu, B. K., Iwashyna, T. J., & Cram, P. (2017).
Medicare's policy to disallow payment for hospital-acquired conditions: the impact on
safety net providers. Medical Care, 55(2), 158-165.
2.
Himmelstein, D. U., & Woolhandler, S. (2016). Public health's falling share of US health
spending. American Journal of Public Health, 106(1), 56-57.
3.
Woolhandler, S., Himmelstein, D. U., & Angell, M. (2016). Proposal of the Physicians’
Working Group for Single-Payer National Health Insurance. JAMA, 315(12), 1220-1228.
4.
Woolf, S. H., & Aron, L. (2013). U.S. health in international perspective: shorter lives,
poorer health. National Academies Press.
5.
Sommers, B. D., & Kronick, R. (2017). The Affordable Care Act and insurance coverage for
young adults. JAMA, 317(23), 2455-2456.
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