Healthcare

I understand that I am making a big difference in the lives of many people by helping out at the local clinic, yet I have to admit that it is hard to see the big picture sometimes. With my medical school interviews approaching, I have been thinking about the larger picture, the health care system of America, and the new health care system instated by Obama. I wonder what the long term ramifications will be for these systems, which I have to admit, I am no expert on. I do believe that many people do not have access to healthcare and this is also mitigated by the fact that they have no medical insurance, and cannot afford any. Yet, I also know that there are many who cheat the system and will affect the new plan in a negative way. I guess the big question would be, "what am I trying to accomplish?" I believe that America's citizens should receive amazing health care and it should be representative of our country's beliefs of freedom of speech and liberties. Combining my recently acquired knowledge in my history class with my ethical knowledge from my philosophies, I have been pondering what it means to be American. America was indeed built on an idea of a country for the people, and wouldn't it make sense that the people want healthcare? I have also spoke with many of my co-workers from my internships over the summer, and some enlightened me with the similar health care system in Canada. Although healthcare was less expensive in Canada, it was often hard to receive that healthcare in a quick and timely manner. This makes me wonder if it is possible to have health care for all, while still having everyone treated quickly and to their desired pace. More and more I am seeing a longer patient wait outside of offices, yet we are changing as a society to expect this long wait. I have seen the wait in other countries such as El Salvador, and know that many people wait an entire day to be simply seen by a doctor. I am excited to learn more about the system and it can be improved. I know that these things are very important now, although they may not seem so, because soon I will be one of the many enforcing this system as I practice healthcare in America. I look forward to gaining new experience which will give me a better understanding of what I think is best for the people, and I will look for ways to ensure that the best is given, and we have the most optimal health care system.