LogFAQs > #882267672

Darklit_Minuet posted...

Simple - insurance and big pharma. Get rid of both, socialize healthcare, and you'll be at the level of other first world countries

Getting rid of big pharma isn't what you want. There's a reason why those companies are producing most drugs. Contrary to horror stories about epipens, they are spending a shit ton on R&D. And lack of international patent protection means those companies need to make most of their profits in the states.

What you do want to do is reduce the symbiotic relationship of pharma, doctors and insurance. Prices have skyrocketed in large part because what you see on your bill is rarely what is actually paid. Insurance and hospitals have their own negotiationed rates, on top of whatever your insurance leaves you paying. You also have big pharma skirting bribes by buying lunch and other things to get Dr's to push medicines based on what gives them the best kickbacks.

Top it off with American culture. Between our generally poor diets and the perception that we shouldn't take a day off to see a doctor before we get sick you've got a recipe for expensive and net ineffective care for your average Joe.

Something as complicated as healthcare doesn't have a simple solution. Uhc alone won't solve the problems, it's just shifting the cost. I think it's an important step, but you can't just adopt another countries plan and call it a day.
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