|
Guest speaker, Dr. Ibrahim Perez, has held various positions, including Director of Health for San Juan and the Department of Recreation & Sports of Puerto Rico. Dr. Perez gave a concise report on the factors affecting health conditions in the U.S. Not surprising, poverty levels were from 8% for Whites to 16% for Hispanics. Life expectancy ranges from 75-80 with Puerto Rico on the higher end at 80. When compared to other leading world economies, the U.S. doesn't do so well. He pointed out that in the 1940's, health became a money-making industry with insurance companies playing a huge role in the system. Most developed countries spend much more per capita on providing health care. In short, we have slipped and must redefine and restructure our health system Another informative program thanks to Committee members Warwick Butler and Ricardo Betancourt. |
