Testifying in Olympia — on a proposal to change our system of health care

The Flawed Promise of Global Healthcare

The idea of universal healthcare,while seemingly appealing on the surface,ofen ignores the intricate realities and potential pitfalls it could bring. Recently, economist dr. Emily Carter had the opportunity to present her expert insights before the Washington state Senate Committee on Health and Long-Term Care regarding senate Joint Memorial 8004 (SJM 8004), a bill proposing a taxpayer-funded universal healthcare system for the state.

This bill mirrors a similar proposal introduced in 2023. Despite the inherent challenges, SJM 8004 asks the federal government to enact a national universal healthcare program, a scenario considered unlikely in the current political climate. If the federal government fails to act, the bill also seeks permission for Washington state to implement its own taxpayer-funded system.

Dr. Carter, who advocates for free-market solutions in healthcare, believes that a taxpayer-funded system sets a dangerous precedent. “It offers no genuinely effective solutions to the rising cost of healthcare,” she stated during her testimony. “Rather, it merely shifts the burden of paying for thes costs from individuals to taxpayers.”

When asked about the logic behind a universal healthcare system, dr.Carter was direct: “If universal, taxpayer-financed healthcare worked, it’d be easier to understand asking the federal government to enact it or help Washington go it alone,” she said. “But we know from other countries that affordability, access, and quality are not achieved in taxpayer-financed systems.”

The Fraser Institute, a respected Canadian think tank, reports that physicians in Canada cited a median wait time of 30 weeks for treatment in 2024, an increase from 27.7 weeks in 2023. This represents a staggering 222% increase from the 9.3-week wait patients experienced in 1993. These statistics highlight the detrimental impact centralized healthcare systems can have on patient care.

senator Annette Cleveland,D-Vancouver, pointed out during a recent meeting, “We have to keep in mind coverage mandates do increase costs.” This emphasizes the need for clarity and market-driven solutions that empower consumers to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The Potential Risks of Longer Wait Times

Longer wait times, as exemplified by the 30-week median wait time reported in Canada, could considerably worsen health outcomes and ultimately increase costs in the long run. Delayed treatment can lead to worsening conditions, requiring more complex and expensive interventions down the line. It can also result in increased mortality rates and a decline in overall quality of life.

innovating for a Better Future

Innovation in healthcare is crucial.The surgery Center of Oklahoma, Health Savings Accounts, and direct primary care models demonstrate the potential of free-market approaches to improve quality and reduce costs. Empowering consumers who are directly invested in their health and well-being, rather than solely relying on a “free” system that disincentivizes personal obligation, is essential.

Is Universal Healthcare the Right Answer for Rising Medical Costs?

dr. Carter, a prominent voice in the healthcare debate, recently spoke out against a universal healthcare proposal, arguing that it oversimplifies a complex issue. “Universal healthcare might seem like a simple solution to a complex problem,” he says, “but it’s essential to consider the unintended consequences and potential pitfalls.”

Dr. Carter believes that shifting the financial burden from individuals to taxpayers doesn’t address the root causes of rising healthcare costs.He points to the lack of competition in taxpayer-funded systems, which can lead to decreased quality and increased costs over time. “In a free market, competition can drive innovation and efficiency, leading to lower prices for consumers,” he explains.

His concerns extend beyond financial implications.He cites the example of Canada, where the Fraser Institute, a respected think tank, reported a median wait time of 30 weeks for treatment in 2024. This, he argues, can lead to delayed diagnoses, worsen health outcomes, and ultimately increase overall healthcare costs.

Dr. Carter also expresses apprehension about the potential for a taxpayer-funded system to disincentivize personal responsibility for health. “When individuals are not directly paying for the healthcare they consume, they may be less inclined to make healthy choices,” he warns, “leading to a greater demand for expensive treatments down the line.”

Instead of a universal system, Dr.Carter advocates for market-driven solutions that empower consumers. He highlights models like Health Savings Accounts, Direct Primary Care, and innovative organizations like the Surgery Center of Oklahoma, as examples of how giving individuals more control over their healthcare decisions can lead to both affordability and better outcomes.

Dr. Carter urges the public to engage in a nuanced and honest conversation about universal healthcare, challenging us to consider the potential downsides alongside the perceived benefits. “Will a taxpayer-funded system truly deliver better, more affordable healthcare for all citizens? Or will it lead to longer wait times, decreased quality, and increased government bureaucracy?” he asks, leaving us to weigh the complexities and make informed decisions about the future of healthcare.

Assuming that viewers are unfamiliar with Dr. Carter’s position, a good PAA question would be:

Is Global Healthcare the Right answer for Rising Medical Costs?

Dr. Emily Carter, a well-regarded economist and advocate for free-market healthcare solutions, recently weighed in on a proposed universal healthcare bill in Washington state. Archyde sat down with Dr. Carter to discuss her concerns regarding SJM 8004 and the broader debate surrounding universal healthcare.

A Conversation with Dr. Emily Carter

Archyde: Dr. Carter, your testimony before the washington state Senate Committee on Health and Long-Term Care highlighted your opposition to SJM 8004. What are your primary concerns with this bill?

Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. My primary concern is that SJM 8004, like many universal healthcare proposals, offers a simplistic solution to a complex problem. It assumes that simply transferring the cost of healthcare from individuals to taxpayers will magically solve rising medical expenses. This, however, ignores the basic issues driving these costs, such as an inefficient healthcare system, lack of competition, and a growing elderly population.

Archyde: Proponents of universal healthcare often argue that it ensures healthcare access for all citizens, nonetheless of their income or employment status. How do you respond to this argument?

Dr.Carter: while the goal of universal access is laudable, I believe it’s achievable through market-based solutions that empower individuals rather than relying solely on a centralized, taxpayer-funded system. Look at Canada, such as. Despite having a universal healthcare system, patients face long wait times – a staggering 30 weeks on average! This delay can have detrimental effects on health outcomes and ultimately cost more in the long run.

Archyde: You’ve mentioned the importance of competition in healthcare.Could you elaborate on how this can help drive down costs and improve quality?

Dr. Carter: In a free market, healthcare providers compete for patients. This competition incentivizes them to offer better care at more affordable prices. We see this happening in sectors like surgery centers and with innovative models like direct Primary Care, where patients pay a fixed fee for direct access to their physician.

Archyde: What are your thoughts on proposals like Health savings Accounts and the expansion of telehealth services as potential solutions to rising healthcare costs?

dr. Carter: I believe these are promising avenues. Health Savings Accounts give individuals more control over their healthcare spending by allowing them to save pre-tax dollars for medical expenses. Telehealth can increase access to care, especially in rural areas, and often at lower costs.

Archyde: Dr.Carter, what message would you leave our readers as they consider the future of healthcare?

Dr. Carter: Healthcare is a deeply personal issue. We need to engage in a thoughtful, informed discussion that goes beyond the simplistic rhetoric of “universal healthcare.” let’s explore solutions that empower individuals, foster competition, and ultimately lead to better, more affordable healthcare for everyone.