@#10 ... the subject of healthcare and health insurance and how accessible and affordable (or lack thereof) ...

I was recently referred to a specialist by my primary care physician.

The Specialist's office called me to schedule the appointment.

I politely told the polite gentleman on the phone to not schedule the appointment. he said, "OK."

Why did I choose to cancel?

A couple of reasons...

For starters, I did not see the need for that referral.

That aside... the health-care in this area is controlled by a major private equity group. So, do PCPs refer patients to specialists to generate revenue or for the benefit of the patients? Is there a kick-back when a PCP does that referral?

Stated differently, my once high-esteem I had held for the medical care in this area has diminished greatly, as private equity moved in and took over the health-care for their own profit.

Now, when I walk into an area medical facility, I feel more like a revenue prospect, and less like a patient.