In my early twenties, I decided to devote my life to bettering American healthcare. I gained exposure to the system as a medical student and still contribute professionally by bettering medical research through software development. My experiences show that many inefficiencies and much greed exist in the system. As Hartmann attests to in this book, so many people angle to profit off of citizens’ health needs. It’s sad, but the political will and personal wills to change systems are lacking. The author aims to change that by giving American readers a more informed picture of efforts to improve the American healthcare system.
Hartmann, a progressive radio host by trade, does so by a deep exploration of the history of the system. He explains how time after time, entrenched economic interests skewers any attempts to cut down on inefficiencies. That’s why, as is often told, the American system costs significantly more than any other nation’s but still produces subpar results. Although every other developed country favors a state-run solution, the American government consistently resists it. Solutions like Medicare for All (advocated for in this book) are relatively popular among the people, but monied interests loudly raise their voices whenever their piece of the pie is cut.
This book functions mostly as a political tract supported by history instead of a history of politics. Hartmann takes direct aim at what he views as the enemy – Reaganism and those who raise placards against “socialized medicine” every time reforms are suggested. He contends that Medicare for All will actually cost less money than the current system.
Perhaps this position is a bit idealistic. Those who are “losers” in such a schematic change will have to funnel their self-interest into other ventures. Indeed, it would upend the economy significantly, and the change could not happen overnight, much like getting rid of slavery took decades to overcome (if it ever has). That said, I believe he’s correct that getting rid of the excess capitalism is the right move to make economically and humanely. However, deeper study into a transition (whose absence is glaring here) might help alleviate future pain.
I’m not sure an American conservative would like reading this book because it brings out a view contrary to their party line. In contrast, American progressives would eat it up. What’s needed socially, however, is a healthy exchange of ideas among the camps. In an era of hyper-partisanship, I’m not sure Hartmann facilitates such dialogue. He merely pushes for his ideological position without calling his presuppositions into question. A little humility would make his argument stronger and his potential audience grow. Nonetheless, his approach will probably delight his radio audience and go to market well. From what I can gather from this radio star, I don’t think that hits too far from his intended target.
The Hidden History of American Healthcare: Why Sickness Bankrupts You and Makes Others Insanely Rich
By Thom Hartmann
Copyright (c) 2021
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
ISBN13 9781523091652
Page Count: 162
Genre: Political Science, Healthcare
www.amazon.com