Summary
Americans’ dissatisfaction with the U.S. health care system has reached new highs, with majorities deeming it “poor” and accusing private insurers of lack of transparency, denied claims, and unaffordable costs.
This outrage was starkly evident in public reactions to the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, where social media erupted in mockery and shared horror stories of insurers’ practices.
The incident highlights deep, bipartisan resentment of the profit-driven system.
Critics argue this public anger debunks claims that Americans “love” private insurance, presenting a missed political opportunity for Medicare for All advocates.
I find this interesting, in the UK we have the NHS, which is considered to be in a poor state but something everyone knows to be an essential service. From my experience private healthcare (via BUPA) has provided a much better experience not just in how quickly you are seen but the bedside manners of the doctors and how comfortable you are made through the whole thing.
I wonder if it is the presence of the NHS that has forced private providers to go a step above? Would the introduction of that baseline cause the American insurance providers to improve?
I feel like it won’t. With how the rich control most things, having a two-tiered system just means public healthcare will be eventually neglected because there is “better” option. If you have a single payer system, the rich and powerful are forced to use it, therefore have the incentive to make it good.