Nicole Hassoun
The Conversation
Originally published 19 Dec 24
The killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has set off soul-searching among many Americans. Part of that reflection is about the public reaction to Thompson’s death and the sympathy the suspect received online, with some people critical of the insurance industry celebrating the assailant as a sort of folk hero.
As many observers have pointed out, frustrations are no excuse for murder. But it has become a moment of wider reflection on health care in America, and why so many patients feel the system is broken.
Philosopher Nicole Hassoun researches health care and human rights. The Conversation U.S. spoke with her about the deeper questions Americans should be asking when they discuss health care reform.
We’re seeing an outpouring of anger about health care in the United States. Your work deals with global health inequality and access – can you help put the U.S. system in perspective?
Here are some thoughts:
The article discusses the moral implications of the U.S. health care system's deficiencies. It highlights that the U.S. spends more on health care than other high-income countries but has poorer health outcomes, such as lower life expectancy and higher infant mortality rates. The article argues that these issues are not just policy failures but also moral failings, as they reflect a lack of commitment to ensuring equitable access to health care for all citizens. The author calls for a reevaluation of the health care system to address these moral concerns and improve overall health outcomes.