The concept from which today's health care system evolved got off on the wrong foot more than 60 years ago and has been out of step ever since. Some authorities insist that overuse of medical procedures has reached epidemic proportions. Dr. Robert Brook, director of health sciences for the Rand Corporation, says that as much as 20 percent of all medical procedures and treatments are completely unnecessary. There is more to the problem than providers' greed or patients' insistence that something be done to relieve their discomfort, other health experts point out. There is very real concern over the possibility of malpractice liability that could lead to astronomical court awards against health care providers.
Authorities agree there is no easy solution to the problem.
Each proposal has its drawbacks and costs. Those who have taken on the cause continue to search for ways to ensure universal access to health care without emptying the national pocketbook. The first step, experts say, is to concentrate on our own health and quality of life. The focus of the nation's health care system must be changed from sickness care to wellness promotion. Our fate is in our hands.