Healthcare reform and obesity

Some problems may not have good solutions. I am being asked frequently by my patients about my thoughts about healthcare reform. From limiting choices to rationing of healthcare, many of my patients are very concerned about the future as this relates to the access/quality of care.

Here is some of my take: With the aging baby boomer population that is living much longer than their parent's generation, the demand for healthcare will continue to soar. The generation under the boomers are far less in numbers and cannot possibly pay enough into the system to fund the healtcare needed for the boomers. Throw into the mix the millions of "uninsured" and the entire system cannot be funded.

First and foremost is the need for tort reform. Physicians will continue to order test upon test so as to be able to defend their positions in the event of a malpractice suit. The way the current system exists, plaintiffs and their "have you been injured?" lawyers have a free shot at doctors and hosipitals. They know full well that the cost of defending a suit is much more than offering some type of settlement, so why not sue, sue and sue some more and hope that the malpractic e companies will offer a settlement? Simple solution to this: Make plaintiffs and their attornies cover the cost of the attornies/court fees/lost time at work IF they lose their case. This makes it simple: if you have a good case, take your shot. However, if it is frivilous or weak and you lose, then the plaintiff and their lawyers will pay out lots. This will save BILLIONS of dollars in testing ordered by physicians.

Second: Lets focus on preventative care. As mentioned earlier this week, America is spending 147 BILLION dollars a year on obesity related health issues. Let's add on smoking, drugs, and other issues that make us less healthy as a nation. Place some of thoise stimulus bucks on programs to help people PREVENT medical illnesses. As healthcare providers, we are so focused on the treatment of disease states and not emphasizing the prevention enough.

Third: Insurance companies...(to quote Billy Crystal from Mr. Saturday Night.."Don't get me started..") Much more regulation of their predatory practices are needed.

There are fourth thru thousandths of issues that could be discussed.

Our focus here is to prevent illnesses associated with obesity. We can all do our part by assessing our own health risks and taking the steps necessary to prevent health problems.