U.S. Doctors Claim Insurance Denials Are Putting Patients' Lives at Risk

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American doctors are sounding alarm bells over the role of health insurance companies in delaying crucial medical procedures, which they argue is endangering patient lives. Physicians have reported instances where vital scans have been denied or delayed for months, often leading to dire outcomes. Dr. Ed Weisbart, a former chief medical officer, states, "There’s good evidence that these kinds of delays literally kill people."

The healthcare system in the United States is the most expensive globally, yet it consistently ranks poorly on health outcomes. Following the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO Brian Thompson last month, public resentment towards the healthcare industry has intensified, highlighting the perceived profit-driven motives of private insurers.

Doctors have shared alarming case studies, citing instances where patients died due to insurance-related delays in diagnostics or treatments. Dr. Cheryl Kunis recounted a case where a six-month delay in securing a PET scan potentially worsened a patient's condition, ultimately contributing to their death.

Critics argue that the complex relationship between healthcare providers and insurers has created a "vicious circle" where profit mechanisms hinder timely and effective patient care. Physicians are often forced to become experts in navigating insurance policies rather than focusing solely on medical practice.

Despite the challenges, industry representatives insist they are working towards making healthcare more affordable and accessible. Nonetheless, doctors are calling for a major overhaul of the current system, advocating for a single-payer healthcare model to better serve patients and eliminate profit-driven decision-making in medical care.

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