Report finds U.S. comes in last for health care quality among high-income countries

A recent report by The Commonwealth Fund found that the U.S. has the worst health care system among 10 developed nations, ranking poorly in areas such as preventing deaths, access, and quality of treatment regardless of gender, income, or location. The U.S. spends the most on health care but has the lowest life expectancy and highest rates of avoidable deaths. Vice President Kamala Harris advocates for building on the Affordable Care Act, while former President Donald Trump has provided little detail on his health care vision. The U.S. was ranked poorly in administrative efficiency and equity, with many lower-income individuals reporting they cannot afford necessary care and experiencing unfair treatment. The pandemic has exacerbated these issues, with the U.S. having a higher Covid mortality rate. Advanced medical care is often out of reach for many due to high costs. The report suggested solutions such as lowering the cost of care and expanding access to coverage. The researchers noted that a universal health care system, such as those in other countries, could make a significant difference in improving health outcomes and access to care in the U.S. Despite consistently ranking poorly in previous reports, there are opportunities for change in the U.S. health care system.

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