The Healthcare System in America: Animalistic Human Genocide

Several concerns surround the healthcare issue, not only in America but also worldwide. Expense is continually the focus while morality of human actions and the ethics of the medical community are left in the shadows. This order of importance is contrary to the basic concept of human rights and especially to the beliefs this country was founded on. A peoples who raise themselves as prime examples of democracy and human rights yet allows its citizens to suffer unnecessarily, is hypocritical.

In ancient Greece, where medical traditions originated with Hippocrates, the center of focus was the patient. Aboriginal tribes around the world throughout history have taken care of their sick, whether by witch doctors, shaman healers or wise elders. Cost was not a consideration. Healers and physicians were revered and supported by the tribes or states. Oftentimes, gifts were made in thanks from those healed or their families, if possible, but rarely demanded. Progress has shown us to be a far less caring species than those once considered savages. The Ancient Greeks, honored by declaring the Hippocratic Oath when entering the medical profession, are only dishonored by the current behavior.

This is not solely an American problem. It is a concern for all nations. However, as leaders and examples we must find a solution that is both cost effective and equal to the citizens. "All men are created equal" does not include "if they can afford to be." One human has no more inherent right to quality healthcare than another human. Both are humans. Both are citizens. Both should have the same access to the same quality regardless of economic status. This is not the case today. According to the American Cancer Society, more African Americans die of colon and breast cancer than Caucasian Americans. Both are treatable cancers with high success rates. From 1992 through1999 the total cancer death rate among African Americans far exceeded any other race. While other factors contribute to this discrepancy, a major component is the lack of access to quality healthcare.