IndexLack of Universal CoverageRole of Health Insurance CompaniesImpact of Healthcare Reform EffortsConclusionThe documentary "Sick Around America" ​​provides a comprehensive analysis of the healthcare system in the United States, highlighting the challenges and shortcomings that have contributed to high health care costs and disparities in access to quality medical services. Through in-depth interviews with patients, healthcare professionals, and policy experts, the documentary sheds light on the complexities of the American healthcare system and the urgent need for reform. This essay will critically analyze key issues presented in the documentary, including the lack of universal coverage, the role of health insurance companies, and the impact of healthcare reform efforts. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Lack of Universal Coverage One of the central themes of “Sick Around America” is the absence of universal health coverage in the United States. According to the documentary, more than 28 million Americans are uninsured and many more are underinsured, meaning they have insurance but still struggle to afford needed medical care. This lack of universal coverage has significant implications for public health, preventing millions of individuals from accessing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and obtaining timely treatment for diseases. Research conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation supports the documentary's findings, revealing that uninsured individuals are less likely to receive recommended preventive services and are more likely to postpone or forgo needed medical care due to cost concerns. Additionally, the lack of universal coverage contributes to an increased financial burden on healthcare providers, as they often bear the cost of uncompensated care for uninsured patients. This creates a ripple effect that impacts the overall functioning of the healthcare system and the quality of care provided to all patients. Role of Health Insurance Companies The documentary also delves into the role of health insurance companies in shaping the healthcare landscape in the United States. It highlights the profit-driven nature of the private insurance industry and the complexities of navigating coverage options and claims processes. The documentary highlights how insurance companies prioritize their own financial interests, often leading to denials of coverage, high out-of-pocket costs, and limited access to specialists and advanced treatments for policyholders. A study published in the American Journal of Public Health corroborates the documentary's portrayal of the insurance industry, revealing that administrative costs associated with private health insurance in the United States are substantially higher than those of public insurance programs in other countries. This administrative overhead contributes to the overall inefficiency and inflated costs of the American healthcare system, raising questions about the sustainability and fairness of the current insurance model. Impact of Health Reform Efforts “Sick Around America” examines various health reform efforts, including the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and their impact on expanding coverage and improving access to care. The documentary offers insight into the successes and challenges of the ACA, highlighting the expansion of Medicaid, the creation of health insurance marketplaces, and the banning of some discriminatory insurance practices. It also addresses ongoing debates.