The coming year will be an election year. We are likely to hear a great deal of debate about the rising cost of healthcare. It is a “pocket book issue” that many Americans are struggling with. One thing we are not likely to hear is any discussion on how America can be the healthiest nation on the planet. Many may think we are already are, but they would be wrong. In fact, in terms of the World Health Organization’s annual rankings, the U.S.A. falls about number 37. Among the developed economies, we rank last in terms of quality, efficiency, access and equity. It isn’t for lack of spending; on a per capita basis, Americans spend almost 4 times more than the nearest other country. So how do we change that and become the healthiest nation on the planet? Making it a national priority would be a good start.
