One of the issues concerning the American public when voting this year is health care system. Citizens want heath care to become more affordable and accessible. Chapter seven addresses the current health care system, biblical perspective on health care; the political perspectives on how to fix the current health care system.
First the chapter addresses the problems with the current health care system. There are three problems highlighted first is lack of access to healthcare. Jackson and Perkins both believe that many patients do not get access to the best care because their insurance company will not pay for the best care. The book gives the example of when Jackson was personally over coming esophageal cancer. For the treatments and test Jackson underwent his medical bills were high but other costs were above “$100,000 in unexpected personal costs including special food, clothing, and preventive health treatments.” Most individuals do not take preventive measures when it comes to their health. As Americans we have a country which does not care about preventing sickness because our doctors are so readily accessible.
As in every chapter the biblical perspective is given; the old testament is full of preventive measures the Israelites were so post to undergo in order to adhere to the religious laws. “The Jewish dietary code was aimed at sustaining health.” Although “there is no real scriptural directive about modern health care;” followers of Christ established the first medical schools in Europe.
There are two opposing schools of thought when trying to solve the healthcare system within the United States. Both liberals and conservatives have different perspectives. Both agree “the best health-care plan will be a public/private commitment based upon biblical values.” The United States spends “17 percent of our gross national product. The most other nations spend is 10 percent of their GNP.” Both sides also agree the United States has some of the best doctors and hospitals.
Democrats are pushing to change the current health care system to that of a universal health care. This creates health care for all American citizens regardless of the economic status. This eliminates one of the current perks Americans love, the ability to make an appointment and receive quick treatment. Under universal health care the book addresses three problems “Endless lines to see physicians… Large numbers of underprepared “cheap doctors” and less qualified nurses and support staff… Fewer innovations in substantive techniques and particles.” In order to achieve universal health care some citizens have to limit their perks so others can receive them.
Republicans wish to give tax credits in order to allow citizens to purchase their own private health insurance. This idea is to allow more citizens to receive the benefit of health care without cutting into the coverage. The republicans want a free market approach to the solving the health care system within the United States. They also wish the
Jackson and Perkins are also afraid the universal health care system will infringe on the morally questionable practices. They give examples of “abortions, sex change operations, and other morally objectionable services.” The goal of a reformed health care system “will protect the moral consciences of the health-care providers as well.”
Christians must be accountable for maintaining their personal health and hygiene. The book outlines eight steps to take preventive measures when it comes to their health. They are focused on maintaining on fitness, healthy eating habits and proper rest.
This chapter assumes every person in the United States is deserving health care. The chapter provides a good historical biblical analysis to the problem of health care. While not endorsing any particular opinion on how to fix the current health care system, there is a very good summarization of the proposed solutions.