McAllen, Texas, ranked the fattest city in the United States, is well positioned to handle the consequences.
Consequences include one of the highest diabetes rates in the United States, an insidious disease leading to complications and a poor quality of life.
But there’s hope. The medical industrial complex to the rescue!
McAllen’s health service sector is fulfilling market demand driven by poor health of it’s citizens tipping scales beyond the numbers. “Since 2000, the health service sector (in addition to the education sector) has grown by more than 150%.”
Within a five mile radius there are ten hospitals standing by with charge masters at the ready to assist citizens in distress.
Health insurance plays an important role in hospital profitability. Competition for patients can only be achieved by joining one of two managed care networks. Or, better yet, by joining both networks at the same time. You can’t lose by betting on black and red at the same time.
Cash strapped plan sponsors, in tacit, unspoken partnership with hospitals have learned how to turn Bronze into Gold by shifting risk and hoodwinking clueless actuaries in northern cellars. It’s a continuing chess game with no ending.
Everyone makes money in Fat City, Texas. Enormous money. Six insurance brokers have captured public sector health plans including large school districts.
There is no other area of Texas that has as many school districts opting out of TRS ActiveCare as we find in the McAllen area. This was not an accident. Opting out of the TRS ActiveCare government health plan provides lucrative opportunities for health insurance brokers, earning millions in undisclosed commissions some of which realize solid returns in campaign financing investments.
This economic eco system is driven by food. Lots of it. HEB food store cash registers document the extent of consumption. It would be fascinating to see a detailed report only HEB has. What foods sell the best? How many boxes of Chocolate Coco Puffs were sold last month?
Is there a solution for Fat City? Let’s ask HEB. Maybe they can help.
ADDITIONAL READING ASSIGNMENT FOR TODAY: Type 2 Diabetes Remission Program For The Lower Rio Grande Valley
