Investing in our Health

It is hard to understand why a nation that spends so much money on health care and prides itself on being the most advanced when it comes to health technology, ranks so poorly when compared to other countries. 40 million people will go uninsured this year, and the question is why? Health care is no longer seen as a service that all individuals are entitled to, but as a privilege for those that can afford it. The system is now based on series of money transactions and is highly influenced by the need to make profit. It is sad to see that health care has now become a luxury, almost as if it is an accessory that only 85% of the population has access to. This is one of the main reasons why small independent clinics are doing so well right now. They see most of the 15% of people that are uninsured. They charge them cash and are relatively inexpensive, a complete physical can cost anywhere from $70 -$90, with extra charges if urine or blood work is needed. In the long run this can become expensive, but for those individuals that are fortunate to be in good health its affordable, and they can say they went to the doctor.
In order for change to occur, the US health care system would have to undergo an extreme makeover from the inside out. Problems arise when that change is not accepted. To me investing in your health is just as important as investing in your education. Mandating and allowing equal access to health care would be an investment for the US as a whole.