Lessons from COVID-19 I: Mercenaries
Briefly

The article draws a stark analogy between the U.S. health care system and a mercenary military. It argues that the for-profit nature of health care compromises the nation's ability to respond effectively to health crises, much like a mercenary military would struggle with national security needs. The author contends that a profit-driven system focuses on minimizing costs and maximizing income, which undermines preparedness and resource allocation necessary for unexpected challenges, putting public health at risk and emphasizing the need for a more robust and selfless approach to health care provisioning.
The aggressively for-profit health care system is a weak point in our national defense against disease, resembling a military relying on mercenaries for profit.
During normal times, the health care system operates like a mercenary force aimed at profit, with minimal staff and resources devoted to more lucrative clientele.
A for-profit military model poses significant risks, including a lack of readiness for protracted conflicts and alternatively prioritizing profit over national security.
If national security were dictated by profitability, the United States would face severe challenges in times of crisis, compromising effectiveness in responding to health emergencies.
Read at A Philosopher's Blog
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