Exposing the Ugly Side of Politics in Healthcare: A Medical Professional’s Perspective

TL/DR –

The author, a physician, discusses the merging of healthcare and politics and the impact on the most vulnerable populations, particularly those in rural areas. Criticizing the portrayal of healthcare workers and organizations such as the CDC as incompetent, the author also highlights the effects of Medicaid cuts, which could lead to hospital closures, and on addiction treatment in rural areas. The future of healthcare amid potential further crises is uncertain, and the author hopes the past eight months have served as a “wake-up call.”

The Unseen Side of Healthcare and Politics

Entering the world of medicine, I was naive and unaware of its “behind the scenes” culture, as I had no prior exposure. Unlike several of my medical school peers, my family weren’t healthcare professionals or connected with local politicians.

My ultimate goal was simple – to deliver top-notch care to my patients without any interest in the financial benefits. However, I was shocked when I gained insight into the uglier aspects of politics in healthcare.

Reflecting on the current situation, it’s disheartening to see healthcare professionals and institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) being portrayed negatively. This agency, which significantly contributed to my medical education, is now labeled incompetent and faces scrutiny over the information disseminated to the public.

The Impact on Vulnerable Populations

The decision to cut aid to the most vulnerable, supported by numerous healthcare providers in Congress, has far-reaching effects, particularly in rural America. It’s a common misconception that poverty is confined to urban slums. However, rural areas are equally affected, as evidenced by the 25% poverty rate in Missouri’s rural counties.

Community hospitals in rural areas were already on the brink before Medicaid cuts. These cuts will inevitably lead to hospital closures, leaving residents like Grandma Karen at risk. Grandma Karen’s survival chances after a stroke heavily depend on immediate treatment, but with the closure of local hospitals, her prospects are severely compromised.

Consequences of Budget Cuts

Rural areas are also grappling with the drug overdose crisis. According to the CDC, the 2019 rate of drug overdose deaths involving potential abuse substances was 1.4 times higher in rural (6.7 per 100,000) than urban counties. Unfortunately, budget cuts could lead to reduced programs for people struggling with opioid disorders.

Ensuring the country’s health should be a joint venture among healthcare professionals, public agencies, and a competent government. Despite the uncertainty, as a primary care provider, my duty is to reassure my patients that things will improve.

Many are concerned about future pandemics, the country’s preparedness, and whether we have capable authorities to guide us through crises. While the answers are unclear, I hope the past eight months have served as a wake-up call.

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