Regarding wait times, our current system already rations care—not based on medical need, but on ability to pay. Studies show that Americans already experience significant wait times, particularly for specialist care, and millions simply go without care entirely due to cost barriers. Single-payer would prioritize based on medical necessity, ensuring those who need urgent care receive it promptly.

Others fear government involvement in healthcare decisions. Yet our current system places these decisions in the hands of insurance company employees incentivized to deny care. Single-payer would establish transparent, medically-based coverage standards, with clinical decisions remaining between you and your doctor.

The Path Forward

Transitioning to single-payer healthcare would be a significant undertaking, requiring careful planning and phased implementation. We could begin by lowering the Medicare eligibility age, then gradually expanding it to cover everyone. Alternatively, we could create a new program that initially covers certain services or populations before expanding.

The transition would create new jobs in healthcare delivery while eliminating some administrative positions. A well-designed plan would include assistance for those whose jobs are affected, including retraining programs and transitional support.

Healthcare providers would need time to adjust to the new payment system, but many would welcome the reduced administrative burden and the ability to focus on patient care rather than billing complexities.

A Healthcare System Worthy of America

America prides itself on innovation, efficiency, and compassion. Yet our current healthcare system embodies none of these values. We spend more for worse results, leave millions uninsured or underinsured, and allow financial interests to override medical judgment.

Single-payer healthcare offers a path to a system that reflects our best values—one that provides care to all, eliminates unnecessary waste, rewards quality rather than quantity, and frees both individuals and businesses from the crushing burden of our current approach.

The question isn’t whether we can afford single-payer healthcare. The reality is that we can’t afford to continue with our current system. We’re already paying more than enough to provide excellent care to everyone; we’re just spending it inefficiently.

By embracing a single-payer approach, we could create a healthcare system that works for all Americans—not just those fortunate enough to have good insurance or wealthy enough to pay out of pocket. We could build a system that provides the security, freedom, and care that every American deserves.

Investing In Better Families With Paid Leave

In the end, isn’t that what healthcare should be about?