In Pursuit of a Universal Healthcare System

In the quest for more equitable and accessible healthcare systems, the concept of a universal healthcare system has emerged as a proposal aimed at addressing critical challenges and ensuring access to medical care for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status. By exploring the fundamental pillars of a universal healthcare system, we can envision a horizon where health is a right, not a privilege. The necessary structures are detailed below.

1. Single Payer: Removing Financial Barriers

A key element of a universal healthcare system is the implementation of a single payer. This strategy has the potential to significantly simplify the financial administration of the system by eliminating multiple insurance entities and reducing bureaucratic complexity. By consolidating payments through a single system, administrative costs can be reduced, enhancing the efficiency of the healthcare system.

2. Coverage for All: A Right, Not a Privilege

In a universal healthcare system, every individual, without exception, has access to medical care. This inclusivity eliminates disparities and ensures that health is a fundamental right for each person. Removing economic barriers to accessing medical care not only improves the overall health of the population but also contributes to a fairer and more equitable society.

3. No Deductibles: Facilitating Access to Medical Care

Another fundamental aspect of a universal healthcare system is the elimination of deductibles. Imposing deductibles can become a barrier for those in need of medical attention, especially for those with lower incomes. By removing this financial burden, individuals are encouraged to seek medical care when needed, rather than postponing it due to economic concerns.

4. Non-Profit: Prioritizing Health over Profits

In a universal healthcare system, the health of the population takes center stage as there are no profit motives. The absence of profit as the primary objective allows resources to be focused directly on improving healthcare and meeting the needs of the population. This represents a paradigm shift where health is valued more than financial performance.

5. Efficient Administrative Expenses: Optimizing Resources

Of the funds allocated to the universal healthcare system, a significant fraction, around $500 million out of the total $12 billions, would be allocated to administrative expenses. This allocation aims to maintain efficient administration and ensure that resources are used optimally for the benefit of public health.

6. Independent and Representative Leadership: A Diverse Board for Common Health

The management of a universal healthcare system would be overseen by an independent board, composed of representatives from various healthcare sectors. The independence of this board from the government ensures evidence-based decision-making free from political pressures. The inclusion of healthcare representatives ensures a comprehensive and equitable perspective in decision-making.

7. Coverage for Visitors: Catering to Temporary Residents

The universal healthcare system also considers coverage for those visiting the island temporarily. By paying a comfortable insurance premium, tourists can benefit from medical care while enjoying their stay. This not only contributes to the health of visitors but also strengthens the island's reputation as a friendly and caring destination.

8. Catastrophic Fund: Preparedness for Complex Challenges

To address complex medical conditions that cannot be adequately treated on the island, a catastrophic fund would be established. This fund would provide the necessary resources to address exceptional medical situations, ensuring that citizens have access to advanced and specialized treatments outside the island when necessary.

In conclusion, the implementation of a universal healthcare system with a single payer, total coverage, no deductibles, and non-profit motives, along with efficient administration and diverse representation, promises a significant shift in healthcare. By learning from successful experiences and adapting the model to the island's specific needs, a system can be built that prioritizes health as a universal right and provides equitable care to the entire population.

*By: Humberto Lugo-Vicente MD

*The author is a pediatric surgeon and professor at RCM. (787) 340-1868.

--titolugo@mmxxiii