An Accident of History: Health Insurance in America

An Accident of History: Health Insurance in America

Presented by Chris Ecos

The U.S. now spends over 20% of GDP on healthcare, a system often termed an "Accident of History.” This unique employer-sponsored model emerged from a mix of government policies, provider struggles, private insurance actions, employer needs and worker demands over the past century.

Why is this important? Knowing the history helps you understand the priorities of the various entities controlling our healthcare system. Does our current system provide the best health care in the world or is it vulnerable, facing sustainability challenges as employers deal with rising costs. What could the future look like?

Join us as Chris Ecos unpacks the complex history of American healthcare and how our unique employer-based insurance evolved to what it is today.

Key Takeaways:

• Historical reasons policymakers have repeatedly chosen not to implement a national healthcare system over the past century.
• Unique characteristics of the Hospital Insurance model introduced in 1929 and how it differed from other forms of insurance.
• Impact of World War II on employer-sponsored healthcare and explain the factors that led to its expansion.
• The consequences of political movements in the 1990s and 2000s on the insurance and provider industries, and determine their ongoing effects on the healthcare system today.
• Potential options for improving the current healthcare system and consider their feasibility and impact.
  
  

For Health Action Council members only
SHRM, HRCI, and CEBS credit available