The Current State of Modern Healthcare: A Critical Examination

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The landscape of modern healthcare is a labyrinth of intertwined systems, regulations, and interests. From medical treatments to psychological care, the journey through the healthcare system can be daunting, often leaving individuals feeling lost and confused. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the current state of the medical and psychological (mental health) systems, exploring the role of various stakeholders such as big pharma, insurance companies, and regulatory bodies like the FDA. We’ll examine both facts and conspiracies, weigh the pros and cons, and discuss practical ways to navigate and potentially mitigate the shortcomings of this complex system.

While I do not have solid answers for every question, my goal is to get you thinking and asking about these problems yourself. Perhaps with enough people talking about these problems we can begin to come up with better solutions.

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Some of the major factors impacting our Healthcare system and some unanswered questions-

  1. Private Insurance Dominance: The U.S. healthcare system is primarily based on private health insurance. Many Americans obtain health coverage through their employers, and there are also government programs like Medicaid and Medicare that provide coverage to certain groups. Why can’t we afford healthcare without insurance?
  2. High Costs: The United States has some of the highest healthcare costs in the world. This has been a major concern for both individuals and the government. High drug prices, administrative costs, and the fee-for-service payment system have all contributed to the high cost of care. Some countries have banned marketing of medications to consumers, but the U.S. is not one of them. Why is the cost so high?
  3. Uneven Access: Access to healthcare can be unequal, with some Americans facing barriers to care due to factors like income, location, or pre-existing conditions. This can result in disparities in health outcomes. How can insurance companies refuse to insure people? This concept is widely accepted in the U.S. without any blow back from citizens.
  4. Reform Efforts: There have been ongoing efforts to reform the healthcare system in the U.S. The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, was a significant reform aimed at increasing access to healthcare and regulating insurance practices, but there were also many critical issues with this as well. Why don’t we follow what other countries are successfully doing and emulate them?
  5. Political Divides: Healthcare remains a politically divisive issue, with differing opinions on the best approach to providing healthcare to Americans. This has led to significant debates and policy changes over the years. Healthcare should not be in the hands of politicians and corrupt policy makers. So many hands are in the healthcare “pot” that it’s become nothing but money and politics these days. I would like to say that healthcare should be between doctors and their patients, but this is even questionable now. How do politicians decide what is best for patients if they have no medical education? Who is responsible for overseeing where they get their information and the real evidence backing up their policies?
  6. Outdated Healthcare Education/Training: Most of our doctors are trained to medicate and address symptoms. Out model does not focus on prevention and healthy practices overall. Medical professionals are not given much in regard to nutrition (which has also been a corrupted industry), physical fitness, supplementation and alternative or complimentary therapies. Why is this so backwards?

Aseem Malhotra, a British cardiologist, author, and advocate for lifestyle medicine, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing preventive measures and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases within healthcare. His biggest message revolves around promoting a paradigm shift in healthcare towards focusing on lifestyle interventions, such as diet, exercise, stress management, and sleep, as primary methods for preventing and managing chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Malhotra advocates for a more holistic approach to healthcare that empowers individuals to take control of their health through lifestyle modifications rather than relying solely on medications and medical interventions. He also emphasizes the need for greater transparency and accountability within the healthcare system, particularly in relation to the influence of the food industry and pharmaceutical companies on public health policies and practices. Overall, Malhotra’s message underscores the importance of empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to prioritize their health and well-being through sustainable lifestyle choices.

Check out some of his books:

Big Insurance:

Healthcare insurance became a necessity in the United States during the mid-20th century, notably spurred by the conditions of World War II. With the imposition of wage freezes, employers began offering healthcare coverage as a means to attract and retain workers, leading to the widespread adoption of employer-sponsored health insurance. The pivotal moment came in 1943 when the IRS ruled that employer contributions to employee health insurance were tax-exempt, solidifying this practice as a standard part of compensation packages.

Subsequent regulatory efforts, such as the passage of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) in 1974, further regulated employer-sponsored health plans, providing protections for participants and beneficiaries. Despite these advancements, gaps in healthcare access persisted, leading to the introduction of government programs like Medicare and Medicaid in the mid-1960s to provide coverage for seniors and low-income individuals. Today, healthcare insurance is widely regarded as a necessity in the United States due to the high costs of medical care and the financial risks associated with illness or injury, spurring ongoing debates and efforts to reform the healthcare system and expand access to coverage for all Americans. Some people “must work” just to afford their healthcare. This is ridiculous! Imagine what one could do if this wasn’t a major concern. What career would you have if funding healthcare wasn’t a concern? Personally, I have held on to toxic jobs just to be “safe in case something happens.” What kind of quality of life can that really provide?

Prior to the widespread adoption of healthcare insurance in the mid-20th century, people primarily paid for healthcare expenses out of pocket or relied on other means to cover the costs. In the early 20th century, healthcare was much less expensive compared to today, and medical care was often provided by individual practitioners, clinics, or hospitals, with fees paid directly by patients or their families. However, this did lead to several issues.

For routine medical care, individuals typically paid their healthcare providers directly at the time of service, similar to how many people pay for services like dental care or optometry today. This fee-for-service model meant that patients bore the full financial responsibility for their medical expenses, and there were few mechanisms in place to help manage or mitigate the costs.

In cases of serious illness or injury that required hospitalization or specialized care, individuals often relied on personal savings, assistance from family members, or charitable organizations to cover the expenses. However, the high cost of such care could pose significant financial burdens for many families, leading to the risk of bankruptcy or foregoing necessary medical treatment altogether. THIS STILL HAPPENS TODAY! Overall, access to healthcare was often limited by financial means, and the lack of widespread insurance coverage meant that healthcare was largely a privilege afforded to those who could afford it. Sound familiar? What has truly changed then to actually make things better?

It’s important to note that the state of healthcare has changed over time due to legislative, policy, and economic factors, so the situation may have evolved since my last research. As for conspiracy theories, healthcare, like any complex system, can be a topic of misinformation and conspiracies.

This physician recently spoke about the seriousness of these issues.

Medical Profession is about to COLLAPSE (well deserved)

The Influence of Big Pharma:

One of the most prominent players in the healthcare arena is undoubtedly the pharmaceutical industry, often referred to as “big pharma.” While pharmaceutical companies have undoubtedly contributed to medical advancements, their influence on healthcare practices and policies cannot be ignored. Critics argue that big pharma prioritizes profits over patient well-being, leading to inflated drug prices, aggressive marketing tactics, and even the suppression of alternative therapies.

Conspiracy theories abound, suggesting that pharmaceutical companies may deliberately withhold cures in favor of long-term treatment regimens that generate more revenue. While such claims may seem far-fetched, there have been instances of companies engaging in unethical practices, such as the infamous case of Purdue Pharma’s role in the opioid crisis.

However, it’s essential to recognize that not all pharmaceutical companies operate in bad faith. Many researchers and scientists within these companies are genuinely dedicated to improving health outcomes and developing life-saving medications. Nonetheless, the influence of big pharma on healthcare policies and practices remains a subject of concern and warrants ongoing scrutiny.

Watch as Rep. Katie Porter of California lays into a big pharma CEO for putting profits first.

Rep. Katie Porter Grills Big Pharma CEO For Putting Profits Before Patients - FULL QUESTIONING

The Role of Insurance Companies:
Insurance companies play a pivotal role in the accessibility and affordability of healthcare services. While their primary function is to mitigate financial risks for individuals by providing coverage for medical expenses, the reality is often more complicated. Critics argue that insurance companies prioritize profits by denying claims, imposing high deductibles and premiums, and limiting coverage options.

Furthermore, the fragmented nature of the insurance system in many countries contributes to administrative inefficiencies and disparities in access to care. Those with comprehensive coverage may receive timely and high-quality treatment, while others may struggle to afford even basic medical services.

Conspiracies regarding insurance companies often revolve around accusations of collusion with healthcare providers to drive up costs and maximize profits. While such allegations may not apply universally, they underscore the need for greater transparency and accountability within the insurance industry.

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FDA Guidelines and Preventative Care:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a crucial role in regulating the safety and efficacy of medical treatments and products. However, the FDA’s guidelines and policies regarding preventative care have come under scrutiny in recent years. Critics argue that the agency’s focus on pharmaceutical interventions often overlooks the importance of holistic approaches to health and wellness.

Conspiracy theories suggest that the FDA may be influenced by lobbying efforts from big pharma, leading to the approval of medications and treatments that prioritize profits over public health. Additionally, the FDA’s approval process for dietary supplements and alternative therapies has been criticized for being opaque and inconsistent. I encourage you to see who provides funding to entities like the FDA and other organizations that are searching for “cures” to many of our healthcare maladies.

FOLLOW THE MONEY! This should be a good rule of thumb for anything you are researching nowadays.

So-Called Conspiracies

Some common healthcare-related “conspiracy theories” include:

Vaccine and Medication Conspiracies: These often involve claims about the safety and efficacy of medications and vaccines, such as the questionable link between vaccines and autism. Many people are unaware of the atrocities committed by countries like the U.S. in regard to how they have experimented with vaccines and medications in other parts of the world. For example: The medication that significantly impacted Puerto Rican women’s health is the birth control pill. In the 1950s and 1960s, Puerto Rico became a testing ground for contraceptive research, largely due to its status as a territory of the United States and its high birth rate.

Pharmaceutical companies, including G.D. Searle and Company conducted trials of the birth control pill on the island’s population. However, the testing of the birth control pill in Puerto Rico was controversial and had significant implications for women’s health. Many women were not fully informed about the potential risks and side effects of the pill, and some reported experiencing adverse reactions. Additionally, the testing of the pill coincided with a period of intense population control efforts on the island, raising concerns about reproductive rights and autonomy.

The history of the birth control pill in Puerto Rico highlights broader issues related to medical experimentation, informed consent, and reproductive justice. It serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical considerations and informed decision-making in medical research, particularly when vulnerable populations are involved.

I won’t even talk about the COVID-19 vaccines, as all the devastating information about these vaccines are still being brought to light and is ongoing (may post on this in the future).

Presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr. talks about vaccines in this podcast. He has been consistently “cancelled” and prevented from speaking out about our current system. I implore you to listen carefully to what he is saying and then do your own research.

Big Pharma Conspiracies: Some conspiracy theories claim that pharmaceutical companies are hiding cures for diseases to keep selling expensive treatments, or that they are involved in other nefarious activities. One of the most well-known and extensively documented cases is the opioid crisis in the United States, involving pharmaceutical companies such as Purdue Pharma. The “conspiracy” revolves around allegations that certain pharmaceutical companies, including Purdue Pharma, engaged in deceptive marketing practices to promote opioid painkillers such as OxyContin. These companies allegedly downplayed the risks of addiction and misrepresented the drugs’ safety and effectiveness, leading to widespread overprescribing and misuse. Evidence suggests that pharmaceutical companies aggressively marketed opioids to physicians, influencing prescribing practices and contributing to the overprescription of these highly addictive drugs. Additionally, there are allegations that companies lobbied lawmakers and regulatory agencies to minimize regulations and oversight, further exacerbating the crisis. The consequences of the opioid crisis have been devastating, with millions of Americans becoming addicted to prescription opioids, leading to overdose deaths, addiction, and social upheaval. The crisis has prompted lawsuits, regulatory reforms, and public outcry, shedding light on the power and influence of big pharma and the need for greater accountability in the pharmaceutical industry.

Government Control: Some believe in conspiracy theories about the government controlling healthcare for ulterior motives, such as population control or surveillance. The Bill Gates “conspiracy theory” surrounding vaccines and medication alleges that the Microsoft co-founder is involved in a plot to use vaccines for population control or surveillance, with claims ranging from implanting microchips through vaccinations to using vaccines for depopulation efforts. These theories often misinterpret Gates’ philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which focus on improving global health through vaccination programs and disease prevention. However, these claims lack credible evidence and have been debunked by experts in public health and infectious diseases. Such conspiracy theories can erode public trust in vaccines and public health initiatives, potentially fueling vaccine hesitancy and impeding efforts to control infectious diseases. While he is not directly in government, he has a pretty big influence overall.

Did you know that the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine, developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative (MVI), was launched in a large-scale pilot implementation program in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019? The program aimed to assess the vaccine’s effectiveness, safety, and feasibility in real-world settings. However, in April 2022, the WHO announced the discontinuation of the vaccine’s use in routine immunization programs in Africa due to concerns over its cost-effectiveness and limited impact on reducing malaria cases. Despite providing some protection against malaria, the vaccine’s overall effectiveness fell short of expectations, and the high cost of implementation posed a significant barrier to its widespread adoption. The decision to halt the vaccine program underscores the ongoing challenges in malaria control and the need for more cost-effective and impactful interventions.

While the discontinuation of the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine represents a setback in the fight against malaria, efforts to develop new and improved vaccines against the disease continue. Researchers are exploring innovative vaccine candidates and strategies to enhance efficacy and durability. Additionally, ongoing investments in other proven malaria prevention and control measures, such as insecticide-treated bed nets and antimalarial medications, remain critical in reducing the burden of malaria in endemic regions. Despite this setback, the commitment to malaria eradication persists, with continued collaboration among governments, international organizations, and the private sector to develop comprehensive and sustainable approaches to combat this deadly disease.

Bill Gates is not directly involved with any government agencies. However, through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he and his ex-wife, Melinda Gates, have collaborated with various governmental and non-governmental organizations worldwide to address global health issues, poverty, and education. The foundation partners with governments, international organizations, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations to implement programs and initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes, advancing social equity, and alleviating poverty in developing countries. While the foundation works closely with governments and other stakeholders, it operates as an independent philanthropic organization and is not a government agency.

Alternative Medicine Conspiracies: These often revolve around claims that natural or alternative treatments are being suppressed by the medical establishment or pharmaceutical companies. All medical therapies should be available to people regardless of if money can be made off of it. Ancient medicine, Eastern medicine, and Western medicine should be ALL considered in collaboration with what is best for individual patients. It’s also interesting that most insurance companies WILL NOT pay for alternative and/or complementary therapies. Wonder why that is?

Let’s look at the most recent “conspiracy” in alternative options. What was the big deal with Ivermectin? The concern surrounding ivermectin stems from its promotion as a potential treatment for COVID-19, despite claims that there is limited evidence supporting its effectiveness and safety for this purpose. Ivermectin is an antiparasitic drug approved for use in humans to treat conditions such as river blindness and certain types of parasitic infections. However, it has gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties observed in laboratory studies and small clinical trials.

Proponents of ivermectin argue that it could be a low-cost and widely available treatment option for COVID-19, particularly in regions with limited access to vaccines or other therapeutics. However, health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have cautioned against the widespread use of ivermectin for COVID-19 outside of clinical trials.

The concern arises from several factors, including the lack of robust clinical evidence demonstrating ivermectin’s efficacy and safety for treating COVID-19, potential risks of adverse effects and drug interactions, and the spread of misinformation and unproven claims about its effectiveness.

The controversy surrounding ivermectin highlights the importance of relying on scientific evidence and rigorous clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of potential treatments. While research into ivermectin’s potential role in combating the virus continues, it is crucial for individuals to consult with healthcare professionals and adhere to approved prevention and treatment measures recommended by public health authorities.

If a medication no longer has a patent, it is no longer profitable, it will not be promoted.

Recently peptides have come under fire, which is absolutely ludicrous. Listen to this excerpt from a podcast discussion regarding big pharma and insurance corruption where they also touch on banning peptides.

Former Pharma Rep on Health Insurance Corruption and Pharmacies

The problem now is that our regulators have also shown how deep the corruption goes. Our regulatory agents have also now been compromised. Our educational/academia system has been compromised and the science in some circumstances has essentially been “bought” and those willing to pay can get any “results” they want. Who can we rely on to provide solid data and research?

It’s important to approach healthcare-related information critically and rely on reputable sources for accurate and evidence-based information. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice and seek information from trusted healthcare organizations and government agencies for the latest updates on healthcare policies and guidelines.

Learn more about critical thinking skills by clicking here and for more here.

The Mental Health System

The mental health system is a complex network of healthcare professionals, facilities, and resources designed to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges. These usually cover substance abuse and addiction services as well. Some of the biggest concerns in mental health is underdiagnosing, misdiagnosing and over medicating. Many providers do not consider all factors in a patient’s life and will automatically place patients on strong psych medications based on symptoms alone. This is also becoming a serious issue for our children. Many times, children’s mental health issues can be resolved without resorting to medications.

While medications can be an essential component of treatment for certain mental health conditions, it is crucial to recognize that they are not always necessary or appropriate for everyone. The decision to prescribe medication should be based on a thorough assessment of an individual’s unique needs, symptoms, and preferences, taking into account factors such as the severity of the condition, the presence of co-occurring disorders, their home environment, support system and previous treatment experiences.

It is essential to adopt a holistic approach to mental health care that considers various treatment modalities beyond medication alone. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is one such approach that can be highly effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. Through structured conversations with a trained therapist, individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, gain insight into underlying issues, and develop coping strategies to manage symptoms.

Furthermore, lifestyle modifications and psychosocial interventions can play a significant role in promoting mental well-being and supporting recovery. These may include stress management techniques, mindfulness practices, exercise, nutrition, social support networks, and meaningful activities. Incorporating these elements into a comprehensive treatment plan can help individuals build resilience, enhance self-care skills, and improve overall quality of life without necessarily relying solely on medication. These might seem like small things, but over time and with practice these things can significantly improve patient outcomes. Self-awareness and self-empowerment must be included as part of treatment.

It is important to recognize that mental health is a deeply personal and multifaceted aspect of human experience, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. While medication can be a valuable tool for some individuals, it should not be viewed as the sole or primary solution for addressing mental health concerns. By embracing a holistic and individualized approach to care, mental health professionals can empower individuals to explore a range of treatment options and find the strategies that best support their journey toward recovery and well-being.

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Despite these challenges, there are practical steps individuals can take to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and advocate for their own well-being:

  1. Educate Yourself: Take the time to research healthcare options, treatment alternatives, and the potential risks and benefits of medications. Empower yourself with knowledge to make informed decisions about your health. You have the power of the internet at your fingers 24/7. If a provider refuses a test or form of care, make sure you get that they are refusing whatever it may be in writing and note it in your medical record.
  2. Advocate for Transparency: Demand transparency from healthcare providers, insurance companies, and regulatory bodies. Ask questions about treatment options, costs, and potential conflicts of interest. Always request and itemized list of charges. Oftentimes, many medical facilities will provide discounts to those paying out of pocket.
  3. Prioritize Prevention: Focus on preventive care measures such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and routine screenings. Investing in preventive care can reduce the need for costly medical interventions down the line. Stress management itself could significantly reduce your chances of developing medical issues. So many new health related and genetic data related services are popping up every day. Don’t be afraid to explore these new tools, it could save your life.
  4. Explore Alternative Therapies: Be open to exploring alternative therapies and holistic approaches to health and wellness. Consult with qualified practitioners and consider complementary treatments that align with your values and goals. Never be afraid to get a second opinion and seek out different modalities for treatment.

The current state of the medical and mental health system is marked by a complex interplay of interests, regulations, and ideologies. While there are undeniable challenges and controversies, there are also opportunities for positive change and empowerment. By critically examining the role of stakeholders such as big pharma, insurance companies, and regulatory bodies like the FDA, and by advocating for transparency and prioritizing preventive care, individuals can navigate the healthcare system more effectively and work towards a healthier future for themselves and their communities.

Registered Nurse | Website | + posts

Things Always Get Better - I have truly lived. I’ve had good times and bad times. I’m a mother, a daughter, a sister, a psych nurse and a soon to be wife. I love writing about my passions, what interest me, what interests others, and sharing all of my thoughts with my readers. I want everyone to have the chance to live their happiest life. This blog is truly my own little passion project, gaining more and more traction each day. I hope you enjoy browsing my site and all of the unique content I have to offer. Take a look around; perhaps you’ll discover what fuels you as well. Read on and enjoy!
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