America’s obesity problem is directly related to our passion for “free” health care. American believe they have a “right” to not have to directly pay for their health care costs, whether through the government or through their employer’s insurance. As such, the average American thinks their health and lifestyle decisions are consequence-free. They can get fat, smoke, drink, and engage in risky activities, and there is a pill out there at no cost that will restore them to their youthful vigor.
Everyone has car insurance, but when you want an oil change, do you turn the bill into your auto insurance carrier? Of course not. But people expect to do just that with the most routine health services. Breaking that psychology among the American people is the key to not only “fighting obesity” but also to really fixing the health care system. People will take better care of themselves when the consequences hit them in the pocketbook.
YES! What you said....