Medical Malpractice

For many, cost is the single greatest barrier to quality health care access. Premiums are simply too high, so there are millions forced to forego coverage altogether so they can afford to pay their other bills. There is general agreement on both sides of the current political discussion that something needs to be done to mitigate the cost of the care Americans receive so that it becomes affordable for everyone who needs it.

These are just a few of the reasons why the costs are too high:

1) Lawsuits - In the current system, malpractice lawsuits are being filed all the time, and when massive settlements are the result, the cost of care is forcibly increased. This affects everyone's insurance premiums and leads to what some have called "defensive medicine"; doctors end up having to defend themselves from suits by ordering superfluous tests and procedures, increasing the cost even more.

2) Unhealthy Living - A large percentage of Americans live sedentary lifestyles and make poor choices when it comes to their diets. In addition, there are millions of people who still smoke and drink too much, in spite of their knowledge of the negative effects it has on their health. These habits result in severe health problems later down the road that raise the cost of care for themselves and others. Personal responsibility is a key factor, and making a difference starts with our daily choices.

3) Errors and Overcharges - When it comes to your medical bills, who's looking out for you? Sadly, millions of people and thousands of organizations fall victim to costly mistakes or overcharges that inflate their bills and empty their wallets. Studies have shown that as many as 9 out of 10 medical bills from hospitals contain errors.