Study ranks U.S. health care system the worst among 23 countries.
Despite spending 16% of its Gross Domestic Product — and double the median on health care expenditures compared to any other country in the world — the United States recorded the lowest score among 23 countries whose health care systems were evaluated in a report published by the Commonwealth Fund this past fall. The Commonwealth Fund is an internationally renown private foundation established in 1918 that finances independent research on health care issues while issuing grants for projects designed to stimulate innovative health care practice and policy in the United States and other industrialized countries.
The U.S. health care system received a score of 66 out of 100 in the study which also concluded that by improving its health care system, the U.S. could save at least $50 – 100 billion in health care spending while preventing 100,000 to 150,000 deaths over a calendar year. The low score was attributed to the poor quality of life that the U.S. offers its patients — rated the worst of those reviewed.
“This is just another reason why people should have a daily regimen that includes exercise, a proper diet and a healthy mental outlook — combined with regular chiropractic care which allows the incredible human body to operate efficiently…a maintenance and preventive care program if you will,” said Dr. Michael Bibb when contacted about the study.
“We’ve all read and heard about ‘overweight America.’ Well, mix an unfit society with a poor health care system and you have a recipe for disaster,” added Bibb, whose chiropractic office is located in Cordova, TN.
The Commonwealth Fund report also gives the U.S. health care system failing grades regarding the prevalent overuse (and sometimes unnecessary duplication) of expensive medical services, a breakdown in communication and coordination among health care providers — and an overall uneven quality of medical services provided.
“It gets worse,” noted Bibb. “The United States scores 15th out of 19 developed nations on easily preventable deaths, like heart attacks, where timely medical care is crucial. We also had the highest infant mortality rate. Moreover, the study found that only 49% of Americans receive preventive care, and even privately insured patients or patients with Medicare don’t necessarily enjoy better life-saving services. And for good measure, only a quarter of U.S. doctors computerize their patient files or keep digital records of written prescriptions,” continued Bibb.
“Our nation’s health care system is in the hands of our elected officials. But, you can do something that will have a positive impact on your long-term health. “
“Change the way you live. Maintain optimum health while preventing future concerns,” said Bibb. “The Commonwealth Fund’s report is pretty clear. Our care system is not healthy — so while it’s always best to stay fit, the importance is magnified while our nation searches for a cure to our health care woes,” he concluded.
Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Charles Hogan directly at 1740 N Germantown Pkwy, Suite 6, Cordova, TN 38016, telephone (901) 752-4300.