Health Insurance in America

This NPR Throughline podcast episode explores the history of healthcare costs and insurance in the US, tracing its evolution from the 1800s to the mid-20th century. The narrative follows the shift from home-based care to the rise of hospitals and private insurance, highlighting key moments like the rejection of national health insurance under Roosevelt and the unintended consequences of WWII wage controls. The podcast details how employer-sponsored insurance became entrenched due to tax incentives under Eisenhower, despite Truman's later attempts at universal healthcare. A key takeaway is the lasting impact of political decisions and lobbying efforts on shaping the current, expensive US healthcare system. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the historical factors contributing to the complexities of the American healthcare system.