The Rising Cost of Healthcare in America
An investigative report
For decades, the extreme cost of healthcare has been a significant issue for millions of Americans, ranking it as the worst and most expensive healthcare in the world. In particular, those in middle and lower income brackets. This widespread problem has forced one in four adults to skip or postpone major health services in the past year due to financial difficulties. The ever-changing prices in medical services, prescription drugs, and insurance policies leave many individuals to make the difficult choice between their health and other basic needs that help support their families. While healthcare providers and insurance company’s main job is meant to support their members and give them the help they need, their actions often fail to align with these ideals. UnitedHealthcare, for instance, has faced criticism for denying claims and prioritizing profits over the well-being of their own patients. These practices leave countless Americans unable to get the care they need, worsening health outcomes and adding to the financial strain on everyday people.
The high cost of healthcare in the United States has prompted responses from both the government and organizations aiming to address the problem. Many programs have worked to make healthcare more accessible for their patients, but many people, especially those in lower income brackets who still cannot afford it, Struggle in getting the care they need. Other countries with other healthcare systems have pointed out issues in the U.S system encouraging changes to focus more on patients rather than profit. Although many companies are looking to prioritize lowering prices, companies such as UnitedHealthcare, have been heavily criticized for denying claims and limiting coverage. These efforts highlight the urgent need to fix the healthcare system within the U.S so many can access the healthcare they need without having a financial burden.
On December 9th, 2024, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione was detained following a nationwide manhunt for his alleged involvement in the murder of Unitedhealthcare CEO Brian Thompson 5 days prior. Mangione was found with multiple weapons, including the alleged murder weapon, a fake license and a handwritten manifesto reading over 200 words mentioning corruption in the healthcare industry. Almost immediately news of the incident. News of the arrest spread rapidly, igniting a heated public debate. Although many criticized Mangione’s actions, many labeled him a hero and praised his effort to draw attention to an issue Americans have been facing for centuries which is expenses and neglect within the healthcare industry. Platforms such as Tiktok, Instagram, and Etsy became locations for the movement, with creators promoting “Free Luigi” merchandise supporting the suspect. This case has become a frustrating topic between many groups of people. Highlighting the deep separation Americans have viewing the Healthcare system and how citizens perceive acts of protests and the moral limits of activism.
The case of Luigi Mangione has reignited the debate over the U.S healthcare system and its impact on everyday Americans.With millions struggling to afford medical care, Mangione’s alleged actions have brought attention to the frustration surrounding healthcare costs and access. In the future, Mangione faces serious charges following the murder of Unitedhealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Prosecutors are expected to charge him with first-degree murder as well as due to his planning of the incident, he could be facing terrorism charges. Mangione could face life in prison or even the death penalty, depending on the jurisdiction. His case not only highlights the extreme frustration surrounding healthcare in America but also raises moral questions about the use of violence to draw attention to systematic issues. This trial is likely to remain a focal point in public discourse due to its popularity, influencing both the healthcare debate which will hopefully enlighten the issue and there will be changes made as well as a broader discussion on the boundaries of protesting and activism.
