Over time I became interested in broader health policy issues, but the principle still obtains. People will still get sick and die regardless of how good the health care system is, but competent analysis and evaluation of programs can improve health outcomes. The health care and health insurance systems are vast, complicated sets of institutions and relations. Ill-considered policy decisions can increase human suffering and even death. I want my recommendations to be based on the best science I can produce or appropriate.
Some people think that analytical rigor and a passion to make a difference are somehow inconsistent.
Such people should acquaint themselves with a seldom used but very useful concept. The lowest level of volition. A mere wish not accompanied by action or effort to obtain it. I do not know what to make of someone who wants to make an impact on serious problems, but does not want to spend the time and study required to make good policy.