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U.S. Health Care System Faces International Criticism for Inequities

The U.S. health care system faces criticism for lack of universal access and high costs.

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The U.S. health care system has come under scrutiny from international officials who claim it violates human rights due to inadequate access. Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of universal health care, which is seen as a failure to meet legal obligations for citizens' health rights. Reports from organizations such as the Commonwealth Fund and KFF indicate that the U.S. spends significantly more on health care compared to other wealthy nations but achieves poorer health outcomes. Critics point out that the U.S. ranks last among comparable nations in key health metrics such as life expectancy and chronic disease management, a gap that has widened since the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of universal coverage leaves many Americans without adequate access to care, leading to significant health disparities. Additionally, the National Institute of Health estimates that over half a million Americans file for bankruptcy annually due to medical bills. Medical issues contribute to two-thirds of personal bankruptcies, affecting millions of Americans, including children and elderly dependents. A joint investigation by KFF Health News and NPR found that about 41% of adults in the U.S. are burdened with unpaid medical bills, regardless of their insurance status. The financial strain caused by medical expenses is expected to rise, particularly due to cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act during the Trump administration. The trend of increasing medical-caused bankruptcies highlights the urgent need for reform in the U.S. health care system to address these systemic issues and ensure equitable access for all citizens.