Question

Hippocrates stated “in abundance, there is lack.” Interpret this in regard to American Health Care.

Answer 1

In his writings, Hippocrates admonished physicians that “For in all abundance there is lack” while speaking of consulting with others regarding a patient’s health care. Hippocrates clearly implies that he believed it was the physician’s duty to protect life, not claim life. Take, for example, the following passage:

I will not give a fatal draught (pharmacon), to anyone if I am asked, nor will I suggest any such thing. Neither will I give a woman means to procure an abortion.

Hippocrates apparently believed protection of life extended to the unborn, a fact that might surprise many people today. And to provide the best care, a provider should make use of the knowledge and experience of those around him who may have different experiences.

This deciphers well into our modern medical system, with general practitioners calling in specialists to consult in specific areas – cardiac, gastro, mental health, etc. – and offers a patient access to the best knowledge and access to more appropriate care. Unfortunately, third-party payers sometimes have a problem with this as it increases the cost of medicine.