Why Healthcare Should Be a Universal Human Right

Our healthcare system should be a fundamental human right, not a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. The very essence of a humane society is to ensure that every individual has access to necessary medical care without the burden of financial strain. This article will explore the arguments for healthcare as a universal human right, emphasizing its humanitarian, economic, and societal benefits.

Why Healthcare is a Humanitarian Issue

Healthcare is a basic human right that should be extended to all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status. When a person or a child is critically ill, having to wait for financial clearance before receiving treatment is a heart-wrenching and often deadly situation. The narrative of seeing someone suffer and die because they couldn't afford the treatment needed is a stark reminder of the inhumane side of our current healthcare systems.

Consider the case of this patient who was in severe pain, but the treatment and ambulance journeys cost him nothing. In stark contrast, the stories of individuals in the US who are too afraid to call for help due to the financial burden of healthcare are devastating. These stories highlight the inequities in healthcare systems that shield the rich and trap the poor in a cycle of financial instability.

The Economic Benefits of Universal Healthcare

Universal healthcare not only ensures humane treatment but also provides significant financial efficiencies and benefits to both patients and the overall economy. Here are several ways universal healthcare can enhance financial efficiency:

Bankruptcy Avoidance: A system where healthcare can be accessed without fear of financial ruin can prevent the looming threat of personal bankruptcy, which is a major cause of financial distress worldwide. Financial Equity: Ensuring that everyone has access to the same quality of healthcare eliminates the disparate impact of healthcare costs on different socio-economic groups. Job Mobility: The ability to change jobs without worrying about losing healthcare coverage is a significant advantage in the modern job market. Entrepreneurship: Starting a business becomes much easier when one does not have to continuously worry about the burden of healthcare costs. Reduced Disruption: Economic disruptions caused by healthcare can be minimized, ensuring a more stable and predictable life for individuals. Competitive Markets: Small businesses can compete more effectively with larger entities, as they do not face the financial barriers that often vex smaller companies.

These benefits collectively contribute to a more economically efficient and stable society.

Case Study: The NHS in the United Kingdom

Let's examine the UK's National Health Service (NHS) as a model for universal healthcare. In the UK, the healthcare system is funded through general taxation, and the vast majority of treatments are free or highly subsidized. This system ensures that patients receive the necessary care without the burden of financial strain.

A notable example is the case of the author's wife who experienced severe back and leg pain. She was treated immediately without any financial worries, a stark contrast to the fear and uncertainty that many Americans face when seeking medical attention.

Compared to the US system, where insurance companies often deny claims to increase their profits, the NHS allows doctors to decide on the best treatment for a patient, without the need for bureaucratic hurdles. This flexibility ensures that patients receive the necessary care promptly and effectively.

Social and Ethical Implications

The ethical argument for universal healthcare is rooted in the principle of justice and equality. If one part of society is denied the basic right to healthcare, it is a violation of fundamental human rights. In the United States, where over 30 million people lack healthcare coverage, this inequality is glaring. Moreover, the current healthcare system in the US perpetuates a cycle of inequality, where the wealthy can access the best care, while the poor are often left behind.

By adopting universal healthcare, the US can break this cycle and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the medical care they need. This move would not only improve the overall health of the population but also contribute to a more equitable and just society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, healthcare should be a universal human right because it is the humane thing to do. Additionally, it provides economic efficiency, promotes equity, supports job mobility, enhances entrepreneurship, and minimizes economic disruption. The case of the National Health Service in the UK demonstrates that universal healthcare is not only possible but also more beneficial for individuals and society as a whole. It is time for the United States and other developed nations to consider adopting a similar system to ensure that no one is denied the healthcare they deserve.