The debate over whether healthcare should be a basic human right has been ongoing for decades now, with some arguing that it is a luxury rather than a necessity. However, the events of the past year have highlighted the importance of accessible and high-quality healthcare, causing many to reconsider the idea of healthcare as a human right.
At the heart of this argument lies the belief that access to healthcare should not be dependent on one’s ability to pay for it. The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This means that healthcare should be viewed as a fundamental human right, rather than a commodity that can be bought or sold.
Furthermore, when we deny people access to healthcare, we are essentially denying them the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life. A lack of access to healthcare can lead to preventable illnesses that otherwise would not have occurred and can also exacerbate existing health conditions. For example, individuals with chronic illnesses may struggle to afford the medication and treatments they need to manage their condition, leading to a decline in their health.
In addition to the human cost of denying healthcare, there are also economic consequences. The cost of providing preventative healthcare is often much lower than the cost of treating illnesses once they have progressed. In other words, investing in healthcare can save money in the long run. Moreover, healthy individuals are more productive and can contribute more to their communities and the economy. Thus, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare is not only a moral imperative but also a smart economic decision.
Some argue that healthcare as a human right would be too expensive to implement, but the reality is that healthcare costs are already high. In the United States, for example, healthcare costs continue to climb, with the average American spending over $10,000 per year on healthcare. This is much higher than what other developed countries spend on healthcare per person, and yet the US still struggles with access and affordability issues.
Furthermore, there are many examples of countries that have implemented universal healthcare systems, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, where healthcare is provided to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. While these systems are not perfect, they have proven to be successful in providing high-quality care to citizens while keeping costs in check.
In conclusion, healthcare should be considered a basic human right because access to healthcare is essential to living a healthy and productive life. Denying healthcare to individuals can have economic consequences and is a moral issue that must be addressed. By focusing on preventative care, investing in healthcare infrastructure, and implementing universal healthcare systems, we can ensure that everyone has access to the care they need to thrive.
