What do you think about using the Gerson therapy for cancer treatment as a way to reduce cost??

Benjamin (Posted by VPR's Ric Cengeri)

Our health system really puts the doctor as the gatekeeper to health care. Doctors are treated and paid like “gods.” But, over the years I have found that nurse practitioners and physician’s assistants can handle most of my family’s issues – often with more time and focus than my PCP. I actually once insisted that my husband see the “real” doctor in his practice, only to find (by going to the office with my spouse) that the PA was really and truly a professional and could provide the primary care my husband needed. Unfortuately, there is a sense that you’re not getting the “best” care when you are assigned to one of these health care specialists. I would like to hear much more about NPs and PAs, their training, their skills. I think that would help people feel more cared for in the health delivery system than they do now – when they feel they MUST be seen by a “real” doctor. With no health care as the option, I can’t believe ANYONE would turn down a visit with an NP or PA. They would be missing out on quality care.

Sue (Posted by VPR's Ric Cengeri)

Bob and guest,

With 75% to 80% of health care costs spent on chronic illness--avoidable through better diet and more exercise--shouldn't we be putting a lot of effort into moving our culture towards a more physically active life with a better diet?

The person with that knee replacement will be going from a life of lower physical activity to one of more physical activity and, therefore, lower overall health care costs which we all help to pay. Shouldn't that knee replacement be encouraged and subsidized?

Paul, Bridport (Posted by VPR's Ric Cengeri)