On The Politics Of Prescription: An Analysis Of The Underlying Problems And Policy-Based Solutions For The High Cost Of American Health Care

Abstract

American health care spending is at an all-time high. The U.S. spends more than any other developed nation on health care, yet health outcomes are far from reciprocal. Americans are not inherently less healthy nor do they utilize more care than peer nations. Rather, the crux of the problem rests in the system itself. Previous efforts to reform federal policy have either failed or fallen short. All solutions involve trade-offs, and true reform in health care policy needs to contain costs, improve quality and ensure access. With these in mind, I have established six (6) policy-based recommendations: 1) universal health coverage, 2) price transparency measures, 3) increased primary and public health investment, 4) emphasis on women's and sexual health, 5) reduction in the cost of expensive care and/or technology utilization and 6) end-of-life care reform. These prescriptive policies have potential to not only save money but also save lives.