Ep 10. Sick Around America

In the tenth episode of the twenty-seventh season of Frontline, entitled "Sick Around America," the filmmakers delve into the complex and often controversial world of healthcare in the United States. As healthcare costs continue to rise across the country, many Americans are struggling to afford even basic medical care, and questions about the efficacy and ethics of the system have become more urgent than ever.

Through interviews with patients, doctors, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, the film explores the various challenges facing those who rely on the healthcare system for their well-being. From rising premiums and deductibles to limited access to drugs and treatments, the program sheds light on the many obstacles that patients must navigate in order to receive the care they need. The system's impact is illustrated through the stories of several individuals who have been directly affected, including a cancer patient trying to access expensive treatments, a self-employed woman whose premiums have doubled in recent years, and a family struggling to pay for their child's medical bills.

The documentary also examines the political forces at play in the healthcare debate, from the contentious passage of the Affordable Care Act to ongoing efforts to repeal and replace the legislation. Experts from various political backgrounds discuss the promises and pitfalls of different healthcare proposals, while patients and providers share their perspectives on the ways in which political decisions impact their daily lives.

Throughout the episode, the filmmakers present a nuanced and empathetic portrait of a healthcare system in crisis, grappling with questions around affordability, accessibility, and quality of care. However, the program does not present a one-sided or simplistic view of the issue, and viewers will be challenged to consider the various perspectives and complexities involved. Ultimately, the show emphasizes the urgent need for reform and improvements, while also acknowledging the difficulty of finding consensus in a deeply divided political climate.

Overall, "Sick Around America" is a vital and thought-provoking episode of Frontline, pulling back the curtain on one of the most pressing issues facing the country today. Through powerful storytelling and insightful analysis, the filmmakers provide a compelling argument for the need for change in the healthcare system.