Sanjum Singh Dhaliwal had everything—a UCLA degree, a great job in private equity, and a luxurious home in Beverly Hills. By all accounts, he was living the American dream. Yet, he decided to leave it all behind and return to India. So, what drove this bold choice?
In a candid Instagram video, Dhaliwal shared that it wasn’t his job or homesickness that prompted his departure; it was the American healthcare system. He recounted two experiences of breaking his wrist—one in India and one in the U.S.—that highlighted the stark differences in medical care.
In India, after breaking his wrist while playing basketball, Dhaliwal received quick attention. He went straight to the hospital, where he was seen by medical staff without any long waits. The focus was on treating him first before sorting out paperwork. “There was zero mental stress,” he recalled, only physical pain.
In contrast, his experience in the U.S. was frustrating. After breaking a finger, he had to wait two full days before seeing a doctor. Despite having top-tier insurance that cost him about $1,000 every semester, he faced hurdles in getting timely care. Dhaliwal explained, “I had to find a loophole, waking up early to snag a same-day appointment.” After ten days, he finally met a doctor who could fix his fracture.
This story resonated with many viewers. Comments poured in from both Indians and members of the diaspora. Some noted that access to healthcare in India often surpasses that in the U.S. for the middle class. Others shared their own frustrating experiences, echoing Dhaliwal’s sentiments.
Healthcare expert Dr. Kavita Patel highlighted a growing concern: “Access to timely healthcare isn’t just an issue; it’s a necessity. In the U.S., many people delay care due to systemic inefficiencies.” According to a recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 30% of adults in the U.S. have reported difficulty accessing healthcare services, often due to insurance issues or long wait times.
Dhaliwal concluded that despite the attractive lifestyle in the U.S., he prefers the medical access back home. “So keep arguing about how great life is in the States. I’d choose Punjab any day—for the healthcare and the Amritsari Kulche,” he said with a smile.
Indeed, access to healthcare varies significantly across the globe and can depend on numerous factors, including geography, facility type, and individual circumstances. This conversation isn’t just about one person’s experience; it reflects deeper issues within health systems that affect so many.
Source link
American Dream, Healthcare System, Beverly Hills Lifestyle, Sanjum Singh Dhaliwal, Health Care Access
