It seems to me that the only way to reduce the total costs of medical care and yet have quality care for those who are sick or injured is to have fewer persons needing medical care at any given time–in other words, to have a healthier population. If the estimate that 40% of all medical care costs stem from unhealthy behaviors is anywhere close, then there is the potential for huge reductions in the costs of medical care.

The problem is that persons may be even more reluctant to part with their unhealthy behaviors than to part with their money. And to the extent that it is grandchildren’s money that will be spent, there is even less motive to give up unhealthy behaviors.

Still, I would like to think that there are some ways that the financial burdens of unhealthy behaviors could be borne by those making those unhealthy choices rather then shifted off to others, including to future generations. It would not be easy. We certainly do not want an intrusive nanny-government. But we do have differential premiums for life insurance; why not for medical care insurance?

Stay healthy,

Jim