Why do Starr and Fernandopulle characterize the link between employment and health care as "sickening" ?

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The Answer is Paul Starr and Jody Fernandopulle characterize the link between employment and health care as "sickening" because they argue that tying health insurance to employment can have detrimental effects on both individual and public health. This characterization is likely based on several key criticisms of the employer-based health insurance system:

1. Job Lock: Individuals may feel compelled to stay in jobs they dislike or that are not a good fit simply because they need to maintain their health insurance. This can stifle career mobility and personal growth, and it can also prevent people from starting their own businesses or pursuing other opportunities.

2. Coverage Gaps: People who lose their jobs, or who work part-time or in gig economy roles, may not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance. This can lead to gaps in coverage, which can have serious consequences for their health if they cannot afford to purchase insurance on their own.

3. Inequity: The quality of health insurance provided by employers can vary greatly, leading to disparities in health care access and outcomes. Higher-income workers often have better health plans than lower-income workers, exacerbating health inequities.

4. Economic Inefficiency: The employer-based system can be economically inefficient, as it often results in higher administrative costs and can contribute to the overall rise in health care costs.

5. Health Care Costs and Wages: The rising cost of health care can suppress wages, as employers may allocate more funds to cover health insurance premiums rather than increasing employee salaries.

Starr and Fernandopulle likely use the term "sickening" to emphasize the negative impact that the employer-based health insurance system can have on individuals' health and well-being, as well as on the broader society. They may advocate for alternative models of health care provision that decouple health insurance from employment, such as universal health care or single-payer systems, which could potentially address these issues and lead to a healthier population.

Why Do Starr and Fernandopulle Characterize the Link Between Employment