Healthcare choices

squashed:

Do we need to choose between a capitalist system where those with the most money get the best care and the others are left with asprin and shot gun and a government rationed system where you can’t get certain treatments, even if you can pay for them?   …

He also calls me “Comrade Miller,” which I loved.

The flaw (or, a flaw) in the question above is that it misunderstands capitalism.  In a capitalistic society, people are not forced to make all of their decisions based upon profit.  A doctor is free to work for the money, or the common good, or the fun of it.  Some doctors will pursue the big bucks; others will pursue the good vibes.  Doctors that deplore the money-focus in medicine can set up their own free clinics.

Of course, we don’t live in a capitalist world.  There are tremendous barriers to entry in medicine.  Perhaps we should talk about lowering them.

posted 5 months ago