To the editor:
I am thankful that the (Robert) Graham Center was involved in the research described in the AAFP News Now story, "Health Improves in Areas NHSC Staffs, Says Study."
It is becoming increasingly clear that health outcomes are linked to many factors, including the distance between the "haves" and the "have-nots." The ability to intervene in improving access to family health care has magnified the positive effects in some parameters. Bravo for the NHSC and all those involved at its conception. The book Dance of Legislation is a wonderful resource for would-be activists who want to make a difference.
We spend 1.7 trillion dollars (annually) on this "medical industrial complex" in the United States and yet find ourselves ranked 27th in the world in longevity. What is still wrong with this picture? Is it that we expect "special" treatment as Americans -- we expect specialists?
Returning to the basics as exemplified by the NHSC would go a long way to correcting many disparities in our system. Might (this approach) help achieve access for the 50 million "left-outs" we continue to tolerate in the richest country in the history of mankind? (As this study suggests,) generalists are (already helping expand access).
Will we ever balance this picture to benefit all citizens, not just those with more money?
Rory Laughery M.D.
Seattle
