In this crossover episode of TCNtalks, host Chris Comeaux interviews NY Times bestselling author T. R. Reid.  They discuss T. R. Reid’s experiences and insights from researching healthcare systems worldwide, mainly focusing on the need for universal coverage and the various healthcare delivery models.

T.R. emphasizes the importance of a key principle in any functional healthcare system at a national level: healthcare for everyone. He wrote about this in his NY Times bestselling book The Healing of America. Some of the key discoveries in the book are the inefficiencies of the U.S. healthcare system compared to others worldwide and the potential benefits of adopting a government-run healthcare model similar to Medicare and the VA.  Reid also critiques the profit-driven nature of American health insurance and advocates for reforms prioritizing patient care over profits.

T.R. and Chris then discuss the unique window of opportunity in 2025 and the need for a new framing of universal healthcare, suggesting alternatives in language around 'Medicare for All.'  T.R. emphasizes the importance of price controls in reducing administrative costs and improving efficiency in healthcare systems.  Reid also addresses the role of innovation in healthcare, arguing that high costs do not necessarily lead to better medical advancements.  He cites several excellent examples of recent innovations, all from outside the U.S.

This is a great listen as the U.S. spends more on healthcare, yet we are not even in the top 10. It’s hard to make one aspect of healthcare successful, like hospice and palliative care, if the broader ecosystem it resides in is flawed and unsustainable.  Join us; this is very timely.

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