On realising sometimes how good you have it (healthcare)

[beardoc]

I attended a session today which was designed for Anaesthetic Fellows like myself who were about to finish their training, giving advice on all the sorts of things that you need to get organised when you qualify, going into practice

Comments

[beardoc]

I know what you mean. I still am aghast with what happened with the healthcare debate in the US this year - most of the world was watching on and just hoping that the politicians were going to do the right thing by citizens. We're all disappointed that it couldn't happen.

[furr_a_bruin]

It's enough to make any sane, rational individual scream. One thing that especially angered me was all the absolute lies being told about health care in other nations that have various ways of covering everyone. Maybe what we need is a multinational delegation - Australian, Canadian, New Zealander, British and Irish. Given the level of xenophobia in this country, I think sticking to English-speaking nations might be wise, though it would certainly be useful to hear from other European countries as well - especially (IMO) the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Norway and that hotbed of socialism, Sweden. ;)

The thing is - universal coverage would cost us less - thanks in part to bigots at one time leaving people of the "wrong color" to die on the doorstep of an emergency room - we have laws that mandate anyone in crisis MUST be seen, which have led to desperate people misusing ERs. It would be so much cheaper to have someone with (for example) asthma get care in a less expensive setting - and the medication that would prevent those ER

[beardoc]

Preventative healthcare is much cheaper in the long run - but, well, there's politics.

But even then, with suboptimal healthcare, it's better than what these people in PNG or the Oceanic islands have.

[danthered]

It's a priviledge to have a system that cares for everyone. Particularly when you see these people that manage with so little care, and often die from inadequate healthcare.

Yeah, we/they have that in the YSM, as stevearrants said. But that's fine and good, because obviously that's how the infallibly divine invisible hand of the glorious free market has decided it should be. *eyeroll*

[joebehrsandiego]

You have a good heart and the proper perspective on this, Seumas. I wish more people in the First World did (about this, and things in general).

[cimarrondfw]

It's so good to see you online again, my handsome bear man doc.

Your observations about health care for all are taken to heart. It sickens me how the conservative element in the USA is so reluctant to share with those most in need--even the children.

And the memmbers of Congress themselves get to have better-than-the-best for lifetime at the expense of the government. What is wrong with this equation?

[andybr]

Seumas its good that you feel a sense of community enough to want to help with your special talents. Good luck.