Is Health Care a Right?

In the article, “Is Health Care a Right?”, Atul Gawande illustrates the irony in which many people from his hometown were opposed to universal healthcare, although many faced several health challenges themselves. Through their stories we are able to understand their emotion and reasoning. Leaning more conservative, many of them believe health care should be earned through hard work. This principle is rooted in the basic American value of individualism. When Mark no longer opposed the requirement that people get insurance coverage, he stated, “But that doesn’t mean I have to sign on for full-blown socialism—cradle-to-grave everything.” This portrays how many people fear the idea of “Medicaid for All” because they see it as part of socialist culture. Furthermore, the article does an admirable job of providing relevant history on American healthcare and medical discoveries. It emphasizes the need for finding a common ground. 

Although the article was lengthy, I believe it was a very important read. This article helped me further understand the logic behind people opposed to Obamacare and Medicare for All. Exploring different perspectives is important in strengthening your own. I still firmly believe healthcare is a right, and should be provided by the state regardless of one’s “work ethic” or contribution. I do not believe anybody should be stuck paying thousands of dollars, or avoid seeking care, just because they cannot afford it. However, the market-driven and individualistic values of the American healthcare system make me lack faith in ever receiving a universal healthcare system. Furthermore, I am interested in the author’s background, as well as his suggestions towards a system moving forward. I am interested in learning what we can do, as students and public health leaders, in promoting a more equitable health system.