New survey data released Monday shows just 12% of Americans think healthcare in the United States is handled “extremely” or “very” well, further evidence of the deep unpopularity of a profit-driven system that has left roughly 30 million without insurance coverage and contributed to the country’s stunning decline in life expectancy.
Category Archive: Contrarians POV
Research has shown that 74% of all U.S. adults use the Internet, and 61% have looked for health or medical information on the Internet. Additionally, 49% have accessed a website that provides information about a specific medical condition or problem. Many people get health information from the Internet but are left on their own to determine if it’s credible. This is one area where pharma companies can restore trust and excel.
According to a 2021 study, 1.1 million deaths—including one in two of those under 65, thanks in large part to our abysmal health care system—”would have been averted if the U.S. had the mortality rates of other wealthy nations. One in three GoFundMe campaigns is now for healthcare-related costs, and it’s getting worse.
President Joe Biden last week ordered flags flown at half-staff at the White House and all public buildings and grounds until sunset Monday, imploring Americans to “not grow numb to the sorrow.” or 1 million deaths from Covid. This didn’t have to happen and those responsible need to be held accountable.
Right now, voters are worried about inflation and rising fuel prices, but they ignore the imminent threats to their healthcare. American healthcare continues to be under assault, and unless we address these issues, a severe health issue could bankrupt families.
SUMMARY: DigitalHealth.com, a British website, had a fascinating look at the use of health apps during the pandemic. Among their findings:
- Downloads of apps supporting consumers with mental health needs increased by nearly 200% from summer 2019 to summer 2020
- Downloads of those supporting consumers with diets and weight loss rose by a massive 1294% from mid-2019 to mid-2020.
Some may see this as a good sign but we need to proceed with caution.
SUMMARY: The biggest argument against pharma is the cost of prescription drugs. Pharma could do something about this by simply uniting to make it easier for patients who can’t afford their medications to get them free or at little cost.
SUMMARY: The future of healthcare involves digital transformation but moving too fast in a matrix management environment can cause problems and set digital back months.