Letter to the Editor - Philadelphia Inquirer
Army Had the Answer
The best health-care system we two have ever known belonged to the U.S. Army.
Dependents were covered; equipment was up-to- date; doctors had a decent salary based on their level of training and experience; defensive medicine was unnecessary since there were no malpractice suits.
Paperwork was minimal, sensible and manageable.
We could be honest with our patients, young or old.
We saluted the adminstrators, but medical decisions were made by medical people in consultation with all those concerned.
Within those appropriate military requirements, we felt perfectly free to provide proper care and were respected as professionals. And although there were snafus, most doctors had a more-than-satisfactory experience.
Despite some problems, like waiting lines in clinics, most patients were also satisfied.
Therefore, the solution to the current medical malpractice insurance crisis: universal, single- payer, tax-supported health care under the aegis of Medicare — an idea which many doctors support — along with compensation panels (not lawsuits) for serious mistakes. Private insurance schemes should be abolished while the income of the health-care professional is, after compensating them for their schooling and indebtedness, kept within definite limits.
Robert E. Kay, MD
Philadelphia
robertekaymd@mycidco.com
Lindley M. Winston, MD
Malvern
lindleymw@aol.com