The timing of these two scholarly professional reports on which one could base future curbs on women’s access to “prevention vs. intervention” in their diagnosis and treatment for cancer conditions is curious. Earlier this year another Task Force found that those bothersome PSA tests for prostate cancer are also over-utilized and questioned their value, we may be seeing some pre-healthcare reform maneuvering. Do they really think we believe the timing of these reports is not related to future rationing of healthcare?
If we drill down and look for areas where the experts indicate a serious example of over-utilization it may be that Cesarean-Sections (C-Sections) are the next target. The current rate of C-Sections performed in the U.S. is over three-times greater than the 5% to 10% level suggested as optimal. Healthcare reformers should have a field-day stressing the importance of Pre-natal care and what appears to be a general low priority for enhancing women’s own ability to give birth.
The ugly prospects of malpractice claims and lawsuits (defensive medicine) is said to motivate many practitioners decisions. Some suggest that C-Sections provide for fewer lifestyle disruptions for both patient and provider (none of those middle-of-the night bothersome events). Some even suggest that surgical intervention in the birthing process is more profitable for both physician and hospital providers.
If past is prologue, intervention trumps prevention in the healthcare continuum of care. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is the unheeded mantra in today’s healthcare delivery systems.
Comments
Thank you for tackling the problem of the Mammogram , and Pap Smear. You are right; the next " Bench Mark " is Ceasarean Section.....etc.Your article is very well written.
Dr. Blair,
I couldn't agree more with your assessment of the reduced mammography screening. I too believe this is the first of limited health care that we are all sure to experience if the current bill is passed.
If congress would listen to their constituents they will hear that no one has an interest in having their choices cut, monitored and/or run by the government.
Unfortnately, I don't believe better healthcare for the public is the goal of the Democratic congress, but rather securing a long term future for themselves with an expanded government and more control over our lives.
Thank you.
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