It is being reported that the cost of medical treatment is rising at an extremely fast rate. New reports just released show that, at the current rate of increase, certain treatment costs could triple, in the United States. Some of the highest increases have been reported due to heart problems. Over 37% of American have some type of a hear problem. These patients need treatment and while some require their treatment regularly, others are able to stay healthy due to diet and self care. The recent reports by the American Heart Association indicate that due to the amount of money and time that has gone into improving medical treatment for the heart, this cost will increase. There is a lot more research to be done, and they will need billions of dollars more, in order to decrease heart disease. Currently Americans spend over $273 billion on issues related to the heart, per year, but at the current rate of increase, this figure could be higher than $800 billion, within the next twenty years. Current figures were estimated by the American Heart Association, based on the recent census data and the current rate of heart disease.
If these new reports are true, then many Americans will not be able to afford treatment very soon. Health insurance companies including Aetna Inc. (NYSE:AET), will only be able to cover a fraction of the cost, and the rest will have to be paid by the patient. Due to the high percentage of Americans experiencing heart problems, it is important for the government to find a way to help them out. The new health reform may be able to provide these patients with just the financial help they need. With stabilized cost of healthcare and benefits from the government, the public will be able to continue with their treatment. On average an open heart surgery can cost over $100,000 and that does not include the recovery period afterwards. Most major health insurance companies cover this cost, but at the rate healthcare cost is rising, they will certainly have to increase their rates too. The current government needs to step in and help those who need the financial help. The healthcare reform noticed this increase and as a result, the administration has been working hard to pass this new reform. Millions of people will benefit from a government sponsored healthcare plan, otherwise they will have to go on without any treatment due to the affordability factor.