A vital component of social well-being, access to healthcare impacts both personal health and the community’s general well-being. It is indisputable that access to healthcare correlates with income or wealth classes because one’s ability to pay for healthcare is frequently determined by financial situation. I support that healthcare should be made a public good across all income classes. A public healthcare system can improve the health results of economically disadvantaged populations by removing financial obstacles, which could lead to a more equal and healthier society. The transformative potential of a public health approach in resolving gaps between various economic groups is examined in this thesis. Therefore, this paper’s main aim is to champion quality healthcare across all income classes.
Literature Review
The research provides important insights into the intricacies of this dynamic by examining the relationship between healthcare access and income/wealth classes. McMaughan, Oloruntoba, and Smith (2020) highlight the interconnectedness of socioeconomic position and healthcare access in the context of healthy aging. Their research highlights the complex factors influencing healthcare disparities between various socioeconomic groups, providing a basis for comprehending the complex obstacles people encounter while trying to obtain healthcare.
Hu et al. (2021) contribute similarly to the conversation by examining how social class affects health and emphasizing health self-management’s function as a mediator. Examining how socioeconomic status affects health outcomes, the study highlights the significance of personal agency in overcoming obstacles to healthcare. It is clear from looking at these important studies that socioeconomic status has a significant impact on healthcare outcomes and access.
Nonetheless, an important gap in the present comprehension is the thorough incorporation of these varied viewpoints. Combining knowledge from McMaughan et al. and Hu et al., this research seeks to close this gap by offering a comprehensive examination of the relationship between healthcare access and income/wealth classes. This paper aims to digest all this information and support the idea of transforming and making healthcare a public good for all socioeconomic classes.
Conceptual Framework
Healthcare access refers to a person’s ability to receive timely and reasonably priced medical care, whereas income/wealth classes relate to social stratification based on financial resources (Santana et al., 2023). The Social Determinants of Health (SDH) model provides the theoretical foundation for this approach, which holds that socioeconomic factors—such as wealth and income—have a major impact on health outcomes. For example, those in low economic classes living in poverty find it hard to get quality care, predisposing them to a variety of diseases like Tuberculosis and cholera. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure that everyone in the society gets equal access to affordable healthcare.
The Health Capital Model, which emphasizes the investments people make in health-related activities influenced by income levels, has relevance in economic theories (Zarzycki & Malaczewski, 2020). Furthermore, the Behavioral Model of Health Services Utilization provides information on how socioeconomic variables influence the behaviors of people who seek medical attention. Using these frameworks, this paper aims to clarify the complex relationship between healthcare access and income/wealth classes, contributing to a better understanding of the larger socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes.
Current State of Healthcare Access
The current state of healthcare access reveals significant differences in terms of wealth and income levels. Empirical data presents a worrisome reality: people in lower socioeconomic groups face significant barriers while trying to access necessary healthcare services. According to a study by McMaughan, Oloruntoba, and Smith (2020), people with lower means are more likely to have restricted access to preventive treatment, which, over time, could have a negative impact on their health.
For example, data from the National Center for Health Statistics in the United States indicates that those with lower earnings are less likely to have health insurance coverage, making it more difficult to purchase and obtain critical medical treatments (Harris-Kojetin et al., 2019). Examples from real life highlight the difficulties experienced by economically disadvantaged populations. Think of a low-income family that, because of financial limitations, forgoes routine medical check-ups or preventive screenings. This frequently leads to a delay in receiving medical assistance until problems worsen.
With data showing that those in lower socioeconomic groups had greater infection rates and restricted access to testing and vaccine services, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated healthcare disparities. Lower socioeconomic communities might need an adequate healthcare infrastructure, which makes it more difficult for residents to quickly obtain vital pandemic-related treatments.
When it comes to preventative healthcare, the intersectionality between income and access to care is very clear. People with lower incomes frequently struggle to pay for routine examinations and screenings, which delays identifying health problems. For example, budgetary restrictions may cause normal examinations for illnesses like high blood pressure or diabetes to be overlooked.
How healthcare is now accessible highlights serious disparities based on wealth and income levels. Empirical evidence and statistical data underscore the pressing need to rectify these discrepancies to guarantee fair healthcare opportunities for people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. The facts presented in this section serve as my rationale for supporting the motion that healthcare should be made a public good across all income classes to reduce this disparity and create a healthy community. Acknowledging and addressing these obstacles is essential to developing a healthcare system that meets the various requirements of people, no matter how wealthy they are.
Benefits of Making Healthcare a Public Good
The shift to a public healthcare system can reduce current inequalities and promote a fairer healthcare environment. We can conceive a revolutionary approach to healthcare access by examining how such a shift could assist people in lower income or wealth classes and evaluating the possible improvement of general population health.
Everyone would have equal access to necessary medical services under a public healthcare system, regardless of their financial situation. This fundamental reform would eliminate the current inequities that economically disadvantaged groups have in obtaining early interventions, essential treatments, and preventative care (Anomaly, 2021). In order to alleviate the financial burden of high medical costs on those with lower incomes and to promote a more accessible and inclusive healthcare environment, it becomes imperative to remove financial obstacles.
Making healthcare a public good would significantly lessen the financial burden on those from lower socioeconomic groups. People would have more financial security and be relieved of the stress of expensive out-of-pocket costs, co-payments, and the requirement for private health insurance. This would enhance their overall quality of life. When financial obstacles are removed, people who would have put off seeking healthcare because of financial difficulties can now receive medical interventions on time and experience better health outcomes.
Preventive care is also given much weight in public healthcare systems, emphasizing early detection and intervention. When health problems are addressed in their early stages, this strategy becomes especially advantageous for those with lesser incomes since it stops the progression of these disorders to more severe and expensive ones (Kruk et al., 2019). Ensuring that everyone has equitable access to health opportunities is crucial in disrupting the loop of healthcare disparities based on socioeconomic status. All this can only be achieved by making healthcare a public good.
A public healthcare system promotes illness prevention in terms of societal health, which enhances the general well-being and resilience of the community. It lowers health disparities among various demographic groups by addressing healthcare access inequities and promoting a more cohesive and healthier society. A healthier population is, by nature, more productive, promoting stability and economic growth.
Challenges and Criticisms
Although it seems hopeful, turning healthcare into a public good is not without difficulties and detractors. The distribution of resources is one major issue. Opponents contend that service demand may outpace supply in a public healthcare system, resulting in shortages and lengthier wait times for medical attention. Maintaining the balance between supply and demand becomes crucial, necessitating thoughtful preparation and effective resource distribution to guarantee everyone has timely access to healthcare services.
The involvement of the government in healthcare is another controversial issue. Opponents contend that excessive government intervention could result in inefficient bureaucracy and a lack of responsiveness to the unique requirements of patients (Kruk et al., 2019). The possibility of red tape impeding innovation and responsiveness in the healthcare industry is a cause for concern. To solve these issues, it becomes crucial to strike the correct balance between permitting a flexible and adaptable healthcare system and maintaining government monitoring.
The question of economic repercussions is another. Opponents of public healthcare systems frequently raise worries about the cost to taxpayers. Increased taxes might be necessary to fund a comprehensive healthcare system, which calls into question the model’s viability from an economic standpoint. It is a difficult endeavor that calls for careful economic planning to strike a balance between a public healthcare system’s financial sustainability and ensuring that it continues to be accessible and cheap for all individuals.
In response to these worries, public health advocates contend that a well-thought-out system can reduce difficulties. Effective resource allocation requires strategic planning, more financing, and ongoing assessment of healthcare requirements. Furthermore, they argue that equal access to high-quality healthcare may be ensured by government intervention if it is properly regulated without sacrificing innovation. A responsive and adaptable system can be achieved by balancing government control and industry flexibility.
I emphasize that the economic effects of a public healthcare system should be considered from a wider perspective. Higher taxes might be necessary, but overall consumer out-of-pocket savings and possible economic benefits from a healthier and more productive population might offset the costs. When implemented well, a public healthcare system can result in long-term economic gains by lowering the cost of untreated illnesses and building a more robust labor force.
Global perspectives
Analyzing healthcare systems in nations where medical care is seen as a public good offers important insights into how these systems may affect people from different socioeconomic backgrounds. We can learn things from comparing these global viewpoints that can be useful in the current discussion over healthcare access.
Access to basic medical treatments is a fundamental right in several nations that have created public healthcare systems, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Nordic countries. For example, in Canada, physician and hospital services that are medically required are guaranteed to all people without direct costs at the point of care, thanks to a publicly funded healthcare system (Lee et al., 2021). Comparably, the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom strives for universal coverage by offering full healthcare services that are financed by taxes. These formidable reasons support my thesis and motion that healthcare should be made a public good across all economic classes.
Common tendencies can be found by examining how these systems affect people from different socioeconomic backgrounds or wealth groups. First and foremost, public healthcare systems typically lessen gaps in access to medical treatments. All citizens have equal access to essential healthcare without paying large out-of-pocket costs, regardless of their financial situation. This ensures that people from lower income or wealth classes receive the same grade of care as those in higher economic strata, which levels the playing field.
Furthermore, early intervention and preventative care are frequently given priority in public healthcare systems, which improves population-wide health outcomes. These systems emphasize a proactive approach to healthcare by reducing the burden on people and society by addressing health concerns at their inception.
These global examples may teach us a lot, especially about allocating resources effectively. Investing in community health programs, primary care, and preventive measures is common in nations with strong public healthcare systems. By addressing problems before they become severe, this emphasis on comprehensive care enhances health outcomes and lessens the burden on the healthcare system. Furthermore, the global experience emphasizes how crucial robust government commitment and strategic planning are to the prosperity of public healthcare systems. Achieving a healthcare system that benefits everyone requires sufficient resources, effective management, and a dedication to ongoing improvement.
Policy Implications
It takes careful policy adjustments to address healthcare access for varying economic groups to provide fair and inexpensive services. One possible policy move is extending Medicaid or introducing a comparable program to cover those with lower incomes (McInerney et al., 2020). By improving access to necessary healthcare services for people who are affected by the economic gap, this strategy would protect vulnerable populations. Policies encouraging healthcare providers to open clinics in underserved regions may also aid in bridging the geographic access gaps many low-income people face.
Considering the viability and consequences of establishing a public healthcare system is important. Even though a system like this can be beneficial, financing sources and administrative effectiveness must be carefully considered. A system of progressive taxation, in which people with higher incomes pay more taxes, can allay worries about funding. Gradual implementation is recommended to enable adjustment and a comprehensive evaluation of the implementation’s effects on the current healthcare infrastructure. Ensuring the efficient allocation of resources and preventing inefficiencies requires the establishment of strong administrative frameworks.
It is imperative to consider alternative solutions or changes to customize strategies to the unique requirements of various economic groups. By implementing telemedicine efforts, geographic barriers can be overcome, and access in rural or economically disadvantaged areas can be improved. Policies that encourage competition among healthcare providers may also improve effectiveness and quality. Another option is to look into public-private partnerships, which combine the advantages of both industries to provide a healthcare system that is more flexible and responsive.
Conclusion
In summary, this essay has examined the crucial connection between healthcare access and wealth or income levels, examining the advantages and disadvantages of establishing healthcare as a public good. In addition to highlighting the significance of lower financial barriers and universal access, the analysis shows how a public healthcare system may alleviate disparities and enhance the general health of society. The compilation of global examples emphasizes how feasible these kinds of systems are. I advise that policy reforms like Medicaid expansion and the investigation of public-private partnerships be made to improve healthcare access for various economic groups. In conclusion, my analysis has broadly examined the topic and supported my thesis that healthcare should be made a public good across all income classes. The benefits outweigh the drawbacks of implementing this innovative idea. As a call to action, I stress that all government institutions and health organizations across the globe strive to make healthcare a public good to build a healthy and productive future.
References
Anomaly, J. (2021). What is public health? Public goods, publicized goods, and the conversion problem. Public Choice. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11127-021-00908-8
Harris-Kojetin, L. D., Sengupta, M., Lendon, J. P., Rome, V., Valverde, R., & Caffrey, C. (2019). Long-term care providers and services users in the United States, 2015-2016.
Hu, X., Wang, T., Huang, D., Wang, Y., & Li, Q. (2021). Impact of social class on health: The mediating role of health self-management. PLOS ONE, 16(7), e0254692. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0254692
Kruk, M. E., Gage, A. D., Arsenault, C., Jordan, K., Leslie, H. H., Roder-DeWan, S., Adeyi, O., Barker, P., Daelmans, B., Doubova, S. V., English, M., Elorrio, E. G., Guanais, F., Gureje, O., Hirschhorn, L. R., Jiang, L., Kelley, E., Lemango, E. T., Liljestrand, J., & Malata, A. (2019). High-quality health systems in the Sustainable Development Goals era: time for a revolution. The Lancet Global Health, 6(11), e1196–e1252. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30386-3
Lee, S., Rowe, B., & Mahl, S. (2021). Increased Private Healthcare for Canada: Is That the Right Solution? Healthcare Policy | Politiques de Santé, 16(3), 30–42. https://doi.org/10.12927/hcpol.2021.26435
McInerney, M., Winecoff, R., Ayyagari, P., Simon, K., & Bundorf, M. K. (2020). ACA Medicaid Expansion Associated With Increased Medicaid Participation and Improved Health Among Near-Elderly: Evidence From the Health and Retirement Study. INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing, p. 57, 004695802093522. https://doi.org/10.1177/0046958020935229
McMaughan, D. J., Oloruntoba, O., & Smith, M. L. (2020). Socioeconomic status and access to healthcare: interrelated drivers for healthy aging. Frontiers in public health, pp. 8, 231.
Santana, I. R., Mason, A., Gutacker, N., Kasteridis, P., Santos, R., & Rice, N. (2023). Need, demand, supply in health care: working definitions, and their implications for defining access. Health Economics, Policy and Law, 18(1), 1-13.
Zarzycki, D., & Malaczewski, M. (2020). Health capital and its relationship to economic growth. Finanse i Prawo Finansowe, 2(26), 157-170.
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