The shocking news of the CEO of UnitedHealthcare's execution has sent shockwaves through the healthcare industry. (1)
In a nation so politically polarized, the collective response to this news is both unexpected and heartwarming. People across the country have united in their disappointment with the nation's healthcare system, and there has been little sympathy expressed for the victim. Many are now questioning the effectiveness of the US healthcare system, including pharmaceutical companies and health insurance providers, that includes Trump cult that typically cares only for corporations and their financial profit.
While healthcare systems vary widely, my time in Iran, Canada, and the US has highlighted key differences in access, affordability, and quality of care.
Iran boasts some of the world's most skilled healthcare providers, renowned for their intelligence, compassion, and diagnostic abilities. However, the post-revolution landscape has led to a brain drain, as top talent seeks opportunities elsewhere. Additionally, the country's medical equipment has become outdated, and the supply chain for medications and consumables is compromised, raising concerns about efficacy and potential harm.
Before the revolution and for a few years afterward, Iran's healthcare system was affordable and accessible. However, over the past four decades, it has deteriorated significantly, becoming increasingly expensive. A particularly tragic consequence is the requirement for upfront cash payments in emergency situations. This means that individuals experiencing a heart attack or other life-threatening condition may be denied critical care until their families can secure the necessary funds.
I was fortunate to have access to free healthcare through family and friends in the medical field. Even outside of those connections, I rarely faced any healthcare issues.
As a high school volleyball player, I once injured my wrist during practice. My friend quickly came to my aid, and I ran to the hospital. Knowing my father would be upset, I went straight to the orthopedic department, where I had an X-ray and a cast. The staff seemed relieved that my father wasn't present, as they anticipated his anger and potential disciplinary measures.
Moving to Canada, I lost the healthcare privileges I had enjoyed previously. Despite facing various health issues, from rib fractures to kidney stones and a chainsaw injury, I experienced long wait times for medical attention. While the doctors were always polite and compassionate, the extended waits were frustrating. In one instance, after a chainsaw accident, I had to wait several hours, as the priority was given to children and the elderly.
Ontario's healthcare system doesn't cover all expenses. While urgent care, including medications, is free, visits to primary physicians often require out-of-pocket payments for medications and lab work. However, employer-sponsored insurance plans, which often include deductibles, can help cover these costs. Additionally, the system provides coverage for individuals who are unemployed.
Generic medications, which are often very affordable, are widely available. If both spouses are employed, healthcare coverage is simplified. The primary insurance typically covers most costs, with the secondary insurance paying for co-pays. For children, the insurance of the parent born earlier in the year usually covers the fees, while the other parent pays the deductible. This system is relatively straightforward and efficient.
Physicians in Ontario are government-salaried, with compensation tied to patient volume up to a certain limit. Despite this, the quality of care is generally high. I've undergone two surgeries on my index finger, both of which were scheduled in advance and proceeded smoothly without delays. Additionally, childbirth is financially painless, with no out-of-pocket costs.
Given the prevalence of American companies, one might assume the US healthcare system mirrors Canada's. However, employer-sponsored health insurance in the US is often costly, and even with joint coverage, each visit typically requires a co-pay. In recent years, high deductibles have become increasingly common, meaning individuals must pay a significant amount out-of-pocket before insurance coverage kicks in. This can lead to financial hardship, especially in cases of serious illness or injury.
Furthermore, there's no guarantee of coverage. Insurance companies can deny claims at their discretion, leaving individuals responsible for exorbitant medical bills. What's even more frustrating is the manipulative tactics employed by insurance companies.
A few years ago, while racing in the Col de Balme area of Chamonix, France, I missed a gate and suffered a high-speed fall, resulting in a tibial plateau fracture and ligament damage to my knee. The extent of the internal injuries was initially unclear.
Following a visit to a clinic, I consulted with three doctors, underwent X-rays, and received pain medication and a high-tech cast. Despite the immediate care, I was informed that I would be responsible for the costs of the cast and prescription medications.
The total cost of the initial treatment amounted to 220 euros. Medical professionals recommended that I undergo an MRI in Grenoble, Lyon, or the United States to assess for any additional injuries. I opted to have the MRI performed in the US.
My sports orthopedic surgeon requested additional X-rays to monitor the healing process and recommended an MRI to assess for any potential ligament damage. The MRI results confirmed the initial diagnosis of a tibial plateau fracture and knee cap injury, with no evidence of ACL, PCL, or other ligament damage. As a result, surgery was deemed unnecessary.
Approximately eight months after, I began experiencing severe shoulder pain that disrupted my sleep. Despite the persistent discomfort, I initially dismissed it. Eventually, my primary care physician, an internal medicine specialist, recommended and administered a cortisone injection.
The pain relief from the cortisone injection was temporary, returning within three weeks, and even more severe than before. My primary care physician recommended consulting with an orthopedic specialist. The orthopedic specialist, whom I had met previously, suggested an MRI to diagnose potential muscle micro-tears, possibly related to age and a past injury.
In November, the insurance company, UnitedHealthcare, denied the initial request for an MRI. Despite a follow-up email emphasizing the importance of the procedure given my medical history and age, the request was denied again three weeks later. As we approach mid-December, I've endured over three months of disrupted sleep. The orthopedic specialist advised patience, recommending pain management over immediate, out-of-pocket MRI coverage.
In January 1st, a holiday, UnitedHealthcare approved the MRI. However, due to the new year, my out-of-pocket deductible had reset. This meant I would be responsible for the full cost of the MRI, which would then count towards my deductible for the upcoming year.
I harbor no ill will towards the CEO. I'm sure he was a loved family man. However, the company's policies have real-world consequences. Reports indicate that UnitedHealthcare denies 32% of claims, and studies suggest that delayed care due to insurance approval processes contributes to thousands of preventable deaths each year."
I almost forgot, when scheduling appointments, patients must specify the reason for the visit, whether it's a routine checkup or a specific ailment like the flu. During appointments, physicians are often limited in the amount of time they can spend with each patient due to insurance constraints. This can make it impossible to address multiple health concerns in a single visit.
Thanks to the US insurance companies, humanity and compassion is no longer a job requirement for the healthcare professionals.
(c) I personally took these photos and videos and own the rights to them. Please feel free to use them as you wish.
(1) https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/unitedhealthcare-ceo-shooting-brian-thompson-suspect-what-know-rcna183155
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