How do we create a healthcare system that prioritizes wellness, equity, and connection? In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak sits down with Dr. Seth Berkowitz, a leading voice in health equity, to explore the root causes of health disparities and the systemic barriers that perpetuate them. Together, they discuss actionable solutions to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Dr. Berkowitz shares insights from his groundbreaking research on food as medicine, the impact of income inequality on health outcomes, and what we can learn from healthcare systems around the world. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on how we can move beyond illness care and focus on true health care for all. If you're curious about the future of equitable healthcare and practical steps toward creating a healthier society, this episode is a must-listen.

Timestamps: 01:01 Introduction to Dr. Seth Berkowitz 03:46 Revisiting Medical Training 05:06 Health Inequity as a Moral Failure 05:50 Defining Health Inequity 07:15 Disparities and Injustices in Health 08:26 COVID-19 and Health Inequity 10:59 Economic Precarity and Health 12:31 Advice for Working-Class Individuals 13:27 The Role of Healthcare Access 20:24 The Egalitarian State 24:18 Challenges in Writing and Research 29:29 Food as Medicine 31:46 Impact of Research on Policy 35:03 Current State of Healthcare 37:16 Rethinking Health Care: Illness Insurance vs. True Health Care 38:07 The Flaws of the Insurance Model in Health Care 39:12 Public School Model for Health Care 40:29 Universal Health Care: Lessons from New Zealand and Beyond 41:15 Comparing Health Care Systems: Public vs. Private 43:38 The Case for Universal Health Care in the U.S. 44:23 Imagining a Better Health Care System 45:18 Addressing Health Care Quality and Equity 46:03 The Role of Income Support in Population Health 49:35 Social Wealth Funds: A Solution for Income Inequality 58:44 The Potential and Challenges of Technological Advancements 01:00:12 Practical Steps Towards Health Equity 01:01:33 Personal Practices for Health and Well-being 01:03:44 Final Thoughts and Life Philosophy

Links: Buy Dr. Berkowitz's book- Equal Care Dr. Berkowitz's Website

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