Health Care Reform: A Necessity Amidst The Pandemic

​The occurrence of the Coronavirus pandemic highlighted the need for health care reform. The ever increasing cases of infected people rise with the need for affordable health care. Given that it is a health problem, approaches in combating it should be towards societal welfare.

1. Health Insurance Versus Unemployment Insurance
   As mentioned in a journal article, “about half of Americans receive health coverage through their employer.” Employers face a dilemma between providing health insurance and giving unemployment insurance since there are financial constraints caused by the halt in business operations. Since many are filing for unemployment insurance, millions of Americans find themselves without health insurance amidst the pandemic. Even some policyholders find health care unaffordable. 
   
   
2. Health Insurance Delays: An Existing Problem
   Even before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, “research showed that more than half of Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance had delayed or postponed recommended treatment for themselves or a family member in the previous year because of cost,” according to an article. Health care issues already exist even before the situation gets worse. These lapses in the health care system could result in a more severe problem in the future.
   
   
3. Prolonging The Agony
   Suppose the citizens do not receive better health care support and services. In that case, the pandemic will significantly exacerbate the health care aspect and the economic challenges that the Americans may face. If they cannot afford testing and treatments, this could result in higher morbidity and mortality rates. Also, as long as Covid-19 exists among people, lockdowns and halt in business operations should be implemented; unfortunately, this can lead to a worse economic state. 
   
   
4. Government’s Support
   The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a $2.2 trillion pandemic-relief bill that provides “fast and direct economic assistance for American workers and families, small businesses, and preserves jobs for American industries,” as defined by the U.S. Department of Treasury. These laws may provide vital support, but the government should offer more policies to secure that Americans have access to affordable health care programs, especially during this crisis. 

Conclusion
The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the nation’s need for a better health care system. With the existing health insurance problem, the government should provide support and policies to stop the situation from worsening. Health care reform is truly needed now more than ever. 

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