Anathema: America's War on Medicine

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This is one of the most enlightening books I have ever read. By using a candid approach, Michael Pryce, MD, systematically exposes what is presently wrong with the US health care system. The contents of the book are relevant, factual, and sobering. Every health care professional should read this book to fully appreciate the current health care crisis in the United States.

Dr Pryce describes negative elements in our health care system that have contributed to the dilemma, which include

The book is set up in short chapters that cover each of these detrimental issues separately.

Health care professionals should encourage their patients, family members, and friends to become engaged in discussing the health care debate and subsequently demand that their elected officials address the root problems that are contributing to the health care crisis. Dr Pryce indicates that the future of health care in the United States is bleak unless there is a fundamental change in how the system functions.

The author notes that bureaucrats and insurance executives who are only interested in votes and profits are contributing to the problem. Many of the problems associated with the health care dilemma are the result of misguided individuals and establishments with less than honorable and ethical intentions. Moreover, solving the health care problem requires that the physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals who are integrally involved in this issue work together to suggest and implement initiatives that will result in fundamental and lasting change.

As Dr Pryce asserts, universal health care in the United States is attainable but not via a government takeover. In contrast, he outlines a sensible plan to overhaul the system, which he says can be done affordably and without government intrusion. Legitimate and sustainable reform is possible and cost-effective, without increased taxes or rationing of health care, according to Dr Pryce. He contends that there is more than enough money to pay for universal health care coverage by eliminating wasteful government spending and by restructuring the practice and business of medical care in a fashion that is fair and equitable for all citizens. Dr Pryce's plan includes comprehensive health care coverage through

There is nothing that I disliked about this book; it is easy to read and well organized. Simply, it was refreshing to learn about a topic that is fundamental to the core values of our American democracy, but it was equally disturbing to realize the seriousness of the problem. Readers will be shocked and disturbed by the information in this book; however, they also will be motivated to get involved in helping to change the direction of the US health care system. Every health care professional has a responsibility to understand the topic of health care reform, and, in my opinion, there is presently no better or more concise treatment on this subject than one is afforded by reading this book.