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Bottom line Quote by Julie Guthman

“In any case, seeing care for certain groups as an excessive cost reflects an arguably perverse way of thinking about health care in terms of human need. [...] In other words, care for the sick is an economic burden only in health care systems where profit is the bottom line and public services are…” quote by Julie Guthman
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““In any case, seeing care for certain groups as an excessive cost reflects an arguably perverse way of thinking about health care in terms of human need. [...] In other words, care for the sick is an economic burden only in health care systems where profit is the bottom line and public services are underfunded and politically unsupported - that is, systems in which only market logic is considered legitimate.””

Julie Guthman

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public Health Forum, 2022

Viewing care for vulnerable groups as a cost shows a market‑centric view that ignores human need.

In simple terms: Treating care as a cost ignores human need.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize human need over profit.

Themes

health equity market critique public policy ethics social justice

Mood

concerned critical thoughtful

Type

analytical policy ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • hospital administration
  • NGO advocacy
  • community health planning

Key Concepts

economics human rights healthcare systems political economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we redesign systems to value care over profit?
  • What policies protect vulnerable groups from market excesses?
A Different Perspective

Profit‑driven models can neglect care quality and access.

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