Five Things that are Right with U.S. Healthcare

My journey with lymphoma, thyroid cancer and prostate cancer started twenty years ago. My battle has helped me gain tremendous insight into the U.S healthcare system.  While I am cognizant of the need for improvement in many areas within the U.S. healthcare system, there is a lot that is RIGHT with it.  As September is National Cancer Awareness Month for blood cancers (Blood Cancers), thyroid cancer (Thyroid Awareness), and prostate cancer (Prostate Awareness) it is timely to point out that millions, like me, owe their life to the healthcare system.  

First and most importantly, the caring in healthcare is wonderful.  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH Data) reports that there are 18 million healthcare workers in the U.S.  I have met hundreds and they all have one consistent trait.  They care.  A lot.  Healthcare workers enter the industry because they care about helping others.  How else can you explain the commitment they make to their profession, starting with the cost and time of education? How can someone manage the long hours, the emotional and physical stress, the risk to their health, and the time away from loved ones – unless they care?  

Secondly, the Affordable Care Act is right with the U.S. healthcare system.  According to the Health and Human Services Department, 35 million Americans (HHS Data) now have healthcare coverage because of the Affordable Care Act.  I am one of those Americans who would not have health insurance without it.  The goal now should be to get those still uninsured, insured, so they can benefit from it.

Third, advancements in drugs to treat disease continue to improve at a rate that is jaw-dropping.  The longer I live - the longer I will live.  The pharmaceutical companies and many start-ups are pouring billions into developing new medications to treat or cure an enormous range of health issues. The National Institute of Health (NIH) often provides important funding (NIH Funding) for drug development research, too.  Advancements with genetic testing and treatment, as well as mRNA research will continue to add to the many new options being developed to care for patients. 

Fourth, the ease of communicating with healthcare providers improves the care for the patients.  The wider use of telemedicine, combined with better ways for patients to monitor their own health at home, are making a positive difference.  While not yet available to everyone, the ability of many patients to log into a patient portal and view and share those records with other providers is a big win for the patient and the care team, improving outcomes.

Finally, the United States has an abundance of caring non-profit organizations to provide resources to patients in their healthcare journey.  Many of these non-profits also raise money for research.   Non-profit funding comes largely from the generosity of those touched by their work.  If you have ever completed a 5K run/walk for a healthcare cause, you have been a part of this support.  This type of non-profit support is a major strength of our healthcare system.  

Despite the many improvements that can be made in the U.S. healthcare system, we should look at what is right with it, too.  Thank your care team. Be grateful for the pharmaceutical companies and researchers for their efforts. Show your appreciation to your elected officials who not only supported the ACA, but help fund drug research, too.  Finally, thank and support the non-profits who are helping so many in their healthcare battles.   

Beating cancer five times takes a Team effort.  The U.S. healthcare system has been a great teammate.  There is a lot right with it, and I will continue to rely on it as my cancer battle continues. 

Bill C. Potts is the author of “Up for the Fight: How to Advocate for Yourself as You Battle Cancer from a Five-Time Survivor.”  More information on Bill is at billcpotts.com