6th hour
October 7, 2013
The Principles in the Declaration of Independence
Over the years of our countries history, the delivery of our health care system has tried to meet the needs of our growing and changing population. “We hold these truths to be self – evident that all men all created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights that among these are life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.” The United States is upholding the principles of the Declaration of Independence by providing Americans with a Health Care system and not doing so by providing quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare to our citizens.
Prior to the 1920’s, most Americans would only seek medical attention to treat chronic illnesses which shortly resulted in death. Hospitals were uncommon and patients were being treated by private physicians in their homes, due to the shortage of hospitals and the underdevelopment of medical technology. This resulted in minimal medical cost for patients receiving care. Because of this, organized health care was not seen as being essential. After a while private physicians began to shift medical care to hospitals in order to take advantage of new technology. As cost continued to raise Baylor Hospital created a system called Blue Cross to help individuals pay their bills, and it allowed physicians to protect their interest and payments. It also encouraged other companies to merge into the commercial health care industry, and the government established Medicare and Medicaid.
“So now, in the 2009 and beyond, the large numbers of Americans who do not have health insurance can testify to the fact that the healthcare system needs reform. The primary issues of health reform are:”
Access to healthcare – Nearly 16 percent of Americans are without health insurance
Affordability of health care – Many Americans, with and without health insurance, faces crippling financial debt from their medical care.