So, we live in modern America; we live within a broad cultural landscape; and we live in a capitalist economy. Obama Care, as it is called, provided health care to about half of Americans who were uninsured or under-insured. However, it's not perfect, as we know. Recently, I had an opportunity to engage the health care system as it is today. A family member got a case of the flu with its various symptoms and signs. When I met up with the family man, he expressed deep concern for his condition. Shortly after, about 45 minutes, he asked for a ride to a nearby Emergency room for treatment. 5 minutes later, he walked through the front door of the hospital's main entrance. After many tests that included 2 units of Ringers, he felt better and was pronounced fit to walk a few blocks home. He fully recovered within 48 hours. It was more or less a typical bout of influenza.
About 10 days later, he received his copy of the bill for services rendered. Recall, he walked into the ER-no ambulance services coming or going. He did not have co-morbidities, does not have same. No follow up appointments necessary. He's a Medicare patient. The amount billed by the hospital:
$16, 445.00, his share:$75.00.
Until this country reins in the delivery of medical treatment by corporations and insurance companies, the citizens of this country will live as second class citizens. Case closed. How do they sleep at night, these doctors and medical professionals? Nobody knows, and fewer care.
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