r/FluentInFinance • u/The-Lucky-Investor • 11d ago

“Medicare for All” would save the U.S $5.1 Trillion over 10 years Discussion/ Debate

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/11/30/easy-pay-something-costs-less-new-study-shows-medicare-all-would-save-us-51-trillion
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u/PrimaryInjurious 11d ago

Obese people tend to cost fewer health care dollars because they die earlier. Same with smokers.

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u/Halunner-0815 11d ago

Hmm, interesting point, but the CDC and several studies counter this overly simplistic view of a complex situation from different angles.

Direct Healthcare Costs Obese individuals often rack up higher healthcare costs due to increased risks of chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. The CDC estimates that annual medical costs for people with obesity are $1,429 higher than those of normal weight.

Smokers also face higher healthcare costs due to increased risks of cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. The CDC reports that smoking-related illnesses in the United States cost more than $300 billion each year, including nearly $170 billion for direct medical care for adults.

Productivity and Absenteeism Obese individuals and smokers often have higher rates of absenteeism and lower productivity. The CDC estimates that obesity-related absenteeism costs employers up to $6.38 billion annually, while smoking-related productivity losses are about $156 billion per year.

Long-term Economic Impacts Obesity and smoking increase the likelihood of disability, leading to higher costs for disability benefits and long-term care. These costs can be substantial and extend beyond the individual's shortened lifespan.

Higher rates of chronic diseases among obese individuals and smokers lead to higher insurance premiums for everyone, as the risk pool becomes more expensive to cover. Additionally, public health programs like Medicare and Medicaid bear a significant portion of these costs, impacting taxpayers.

Suggesting that early death due to obesity or smoking is economically beneficial raises significant ethical concerns. It devalues the importance of preventive healthcare and quality of life and can be seen as endorsing harmful behaviours.