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Medical Care

How Portugal's Low-Cost Health System Boosts Longevity and What the US Can Learn

2024-12-10

**Title**: ""**Keywords**:1. Portugal's Health System2. Primary Care in Portugal3. Public Health in Portugal4. Health Care in Portugal5. Portugal's Medical Success**Outline**:1. MRI Machine in Lisbon's Hospital2. Portugal's Health System Strategy3. Primary Health Care Clinics in Portugal4. Portugal's Success in Life Expectancy5. Challenges in Portugal's Health System6. Portugal's Covid Vaccination Success7. Private Hospitals in Portugal8. Drug Treatment in Portugal9. Aging Population and Health Care in Portugal**Introduction**:In the heart of Lisbon lies a public hospital that takes one on a journey through time. Amidst centuries-old tiles and Renaissance art, Portugal's health system stands as a testament to the power of focusing on primary care and public health. This article delves into the unique aspects of Portugal's healthcare model and its remarkable achievements.**Tagline**: "Discover how Portugal's health system defies expectations and offers valuable lessons for the world."**Article**:LISBON — Stepping into one of this city's largest public hospitals is like taking a trip through history. Plastic waiting room chairs coexist with centuries-old Azulejo tiles, and a nearby chapel shines with Renaissance statuary and paintings. Hospital de São José, with its ambulance bays, exam rooms, and labs, occupies a former college built by the Jesuits in 1579. This recycling of a timeworn campus exemplifies Portugal's health system. Instead of investing in new hospitals and expensive drug therapies, the country emphasizes primary care and public health.

Portugal's Health System Strategy

This strategy has served Portugal well. Despite spending only 20% of what the US does on healthcare per person, Portugal has a life expectancy nearly four years longer. According to the 2021 Global Security Index, it ranks third in providing access to affordable healthcare out of 195 countries, while the US ranks 183rd. Portugal's national health care system entitles every resident to free or very low-cost healthcare. "They take care of people. If you're poor, you still get health care. And you don't have to have a job to get health insurance," says Kyriakos S. Markides.

MRI Machine in Lisbon's Hospital

The radiology waiting room in Lisbon's centuries-old Hospital de São José is a sight to behold. It showcases the unique blend of old and new within the healthcare system. Ambulances enter the hospital, which was once a Jesuit college, adding to its historical significance.

Primary Health Care Clinics in Portugal

At the heart of Portugal's health success are primary health care clinics embedded in neighborhoods. These "family health units" work alongside regional public health units, with free data flow between them to track illnesses and unmet health needs. Gustavo Tato Borges, president of Portugal's National Association of Public Health Doctors, emphasizes the importance of this network.

Primary Care in Action

At the Baixa Family Health Unit in Lisbon's historic center, patients from various nations receive family care. Doctor Martino Gliozzi coordinates the center and follows patients from pregnancy to death. He implemented a system to distribute appointments throughout the day, reducing waiting times. For those unable to come to the clinic, doctors make house calls. The clinic also embraces "out of the box" ideas like Walk with a Doc to encourage exercise.

Portugal's Success in Life Expectancy

In 1950, Portugal's life expectancy was around 60, among the lowest for developed nations. But today, it has swapped places with the US, with an average life expectancy of 82.3 years. This remarkable progress is attributed to the country's focus on primary and preventive care.

Comparing with the US

While the US spends $4.5 trillion on healthcare per year and ranks around 60th in life expectancy among nations, Portugal achieves similar results with an annual healthcare expenditure of about $2,700 per person. "We are a sick nation," says Stephen Bezruchka. "The United States is the most innovative — and dysfunctional — health care system in the world."

Challenges in Portugal's Health System

Portugal is not without challenges. A shortage of primary care doctors leads to long waits for care, and over a million people, many of them immigrants, have no assigned physician. Despite the efforts of health care workers, the system still faces issues.

Doctor Shortage

The doctor shortage is partly due to demographics as those who started their careers at the dawn of the health system retire and are not replaced. Low pay in expensive regions like Lisbon and Nazaré also contributes to the problem. Many doctors and nurses leave for higher-paying Northern European countries.

Portugal's Covid Vaccination Success

During the Covid pandemic, Portugal's vaccination efforts were remarkable. Thanks to the country's decades-long focus on vaccination programs, vaccine hesitancy was minimal. Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo, a former submarine squadron commander, took charge and deployed military mathematicians to optimize vaccine delivery. He partnered with mayors and village leaders and used iconic soccer stadiums for mass vaccination sites. Portugal quickly became one of the world's most vaccinated countries.

Private Hospitals in Portugal

Some middle-class and wealthy Portuguese have turned to private hospitals for elective surgeries and other care. Private hospitals in Lisbon are often new and sleek, but they can feel impersonal. Some private providers are more interested in quick profits from simple procedures, leading insured patients to return to the public system.

Private vs Public Systems

This can lead to a vicious downward cycle, eroding the public system. "Across the region, private providers take the easy cases because they are there to make money," says Jon Cylus.

Drug Treatment in Portugal

In the 1990s, Portugal had one of the highest rates of heroin use and fatal overdoses. But in 2001, the country decriminalized drug use and possession and created a network of treatment centers. Today, drug overdose deaths have fallen sharply, and HIV infection rates have dropped dramatically.

Harm Reduction Strategy

Mariana Gomes and Antonio Cabrita from Crescer provide harm reduction services, outreach, and low-cost rehabilitation. They hand out antiseptic wipes and other supplies to prevent the spread of diseases. Their efforts have had a significant impact on reducing drug-related harm.

Aging Population and Health Care in Portugal

While Portugal's longevity is a reward for its good health system, it has brought new challenges. Nearly one in four Portuguese are over 65 and live with chronic conditions. Manuel Lopes advises health leaders to focus on allied health professionals for continuity of care.

New Leaders in Health Care

The nation has recruited younger leaders like Rita Sá Machado and André Peralta-Santos to modernize the system. Peralta-Santos, who learned from the US, is applying data science to improve the health system.In conclusion, Portugal's health system offers valuable lessons for the world. By focusing on primary care and public health, the country has achieved remarkable results in life expectancy and other health metrics. While it faces challenges, it continues to innovate and adapt to meet the needs of its aging population.

Ex-Washington Post reporter Taylor Lorenz's remarks about feeling "joy" upon hearing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's shooting in New York City have sparked a heated debate. Her interaction with Piers Morgan during his show on Monday revealed a deep divide in views on this tragic event.

Initial Reactions and the Shooting Incident

Lorenz told Morgan that she felt a certain emotion along with many Americans when Thompson was shot. She emphasized that it was not joy but a complex reaction to the situation. Thompson was tragically killed outside the Midtown Hilton Hotel on Wednesday, and a suspect was arrested at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on Monday. Morgan was taken aback by her response, asking how she could find such a thing joyful.

It's a story that has drawn widespread attention, with many questioning Lorenz's words and the underlying issues they expose about the healthcare system and its impact on society.

The Healthcare System's Impact

Lorenz pointed out that the actions of greedy health insurance executives like Thompson led to the deaths of tens of thousands of innocent Americans. She argued that their policies of denying care to the most vulnerable have had dire consequences. This perspective has sparked a significant conversation about the flaws in the healthcare system and the need for change.

It's a topic that touches the lives of millions, as people have witnessed loved ones suffer and in some cases die due to lack of proper healthcare. Lorenz's stance has ignited a firestorm of discussion, with many weighing in on the importance of addressing these issues.

Reactions from the Panel and Morgan's Perspective

Tomi Lahren was on the panel and criticized Lorenz for not showing empathy. Morgan also expressed his disbelief and frustration, asking why Lorenz seemed to find the whole situation humorous. Lorenz defended herself, stating that she took back the word "joy" and that it was a miscommunication.

The exchange between the panelists and Morgan highlights the different viewpoints on this tragic event and the broader issues at hand. It's a complex situation that goes beyond a simple shooting and delves into the heart of the healthcare debate.

Suggestions and Social Media Reactions

After Thompson's death, Lorenz suggested that other healthcare executives should also be held accountable. This sparked further discussion and criticism on social media. People weighed in on whether such actions were appropriate or if there were better ways to address the problems in the healthcare system.

The incident has become a focal point for discussions about justice, empathy, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. It's a story that continues to unfold and has far-reaching implications for the future of healthcare in the United States.

Healthcare costs have long been a topic of concern, and in Chicago, the issue has sparked significant anger. Dr. Bill Hennessey takes on the challenge of understanding how the insurance industry has reached such a state of breakdown. This in-depth exploration aims to shed light on the factors contributing to the rising healthcare costs and their impact on individuals and society.

Uncover the Roots of Healthcare Cost Anger in Chicago

Section 1: The Origins of Healthcare Cost Escalation

Healthcare costs have been on a steady rise for decades, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. One of the primary factors contributing to this escalation is the increasing complexity of medical procedures and treatments. With advancements in technology, new and more expensive medical options are constantly being introduced, driving up the overall cost of healthcare. For example, the development of advanced imaging technologies such as MRI and CT scans has led to a significant increase in diagnostic costs. Additionally, the rising cost of prescription drugs is another major contributor to the overall healthcare cost burden. The introduction of new and more expensive drugs, often with limited competition, has led to skyrocketing prices that patients and insurers alike are struggling to afford.Another factor that has played a significant role in the growth of healthcare costs is the administrative burden. The insurance industry is known for its complex and bureaucratic processes, which add significant costs to the system. From claims processing to insurance underwriting, every step in the insurance process comes with a price tag. These administrative costs are passed on to the patients in the form of higher premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, the lack of coordination between different healthcare providers and insurers can also lead to inefficiencies and increased costs. For instance, when a patient sees multiple doctors from different specialties, there is often a lack of communication and coordination between them, resulting in duplicate tests and unnecessary treatments.

Section 2: The Impact of Healthcare Costs on Individuals

The rising healthcare costs have a profound impact on individuals and their families. For many people, the cost of health insurance is a significant financial burden, often leaving them with little disposable income. In some cases, individuals may even be forced to choose between paying for healthcare and meeting other basic needs such as housing and food. This can lead to a cycle of financial stress and poor health outcomes. Moreover, the high cost of healthcare can also lead to delays in seeking medical treatment, as patients may be hesitant to incur the financial burden. This can result in more serious health problems down the line, which can be even more costly to treat.For those with chronic conditions, the cost of healthcare can be especially devastating. The ongoing treatment and management of chronic diseases require regular visits to doctors, prescription medications, and other medical services. These costs can quickly add up, putting a strain on the finances of both the patients and their families. In some cases, patients may even have to choose between continuing their treatment and facing financial ruin. This highlights the urgent need for more affordable healthcare options for those with chronic conditions.

Section 3: The Role of the Insurance Industry in Addressing Healthcare Costs

The insurance industry plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, and it has a responsibility to address the issue of rising healthcare costs. One way the insurance industry can contribute to cost reduction is by promoting preventive care. By encouraging patients to get regular check-ups and screenings, insurers can help detect health problems early, when they are more treatable and less expensive. This can lead to a reduction in overall healthcare costs in the long run.Another approach that the insurance industry can take is to negotiate better prices with healthcare providers. By using their purchasing power, insurers can negotiate lower rates for medical services and prescription drugs. This can help reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for patients and make healthcare more affordable. Additionally, insurers can also invest in innovative technologies and solutions that can improve the efficiency of the healthcare system and reduce costs. For example, the use of telemedicine can help reduce the need for in-person visits to doctors, saving both time and money.In conclusion, the anger over healthcare costs in Chicago is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive understanding of the various factors at play. By addressing the origins of healthcare cost escalation, the impact on individuals, and the role of the insurance industry, we can work towards finding solutions that make healthcare more affordable and accessible for everyone.