Is it time to Change? Convenience vs Fragility

For many of you, obtaining your prescriptions this past week from your local pharmacy has taken an unexpected turn. Instead of the routine exchange of your insurance card, you're more likely being asked to pay in cash. This shift stems from a significant disruption at Change Healthcare, an issue that, a week later, remains unresolved.

This situation might seem like a mere inconvenience for those who can afford their medications out-of-pocket, but it underscores a much deeper crisis. The hack has not only impacted local pharmacies but has also sent ripples through numerous clinical practices nationwide, many of which have experienced significant, if not complete, halts in cash flow.

In an ideal world, every business would maintain a cash reserve for unforeseen circumstances. Yet, the reality is that many of these clinics operate with large payrolls, employing dozens, sometimes hundreds, of individuals. It's the well-being of these employees that weighs heavily on my mind. The delay in receiving a paycheck for two weeks, or even a month, can precipitate real hardship for families dependent on that income for their basic needs, such as rent and groceries.

Convenience and Complexity meet Fragility.

Our relentless pursuit of efficiency — in this instance, the transition from paper to electronic claims facilitated by Change Healthcare — has made us increasingly dependent on technology. This convenience of having everything at our fingertips is undeniable, yet it's accompanied by a heightened vulnerability. A minor hiccup in this intricate web of services can trigger significant, far-reaching consequences.

As we stand, the full resolution of the Change Healthcare debacle remains to be seen. What's unmistakably clear, however, is that this is unlikely to be an isolated incident. Future disruptions, perhaps even more severe, are almost a certainty. This begs the question: What's our Plan B?

In confronting these challenges, we must not only strive for technological advancements but also build robust, resilient systems capable of withstanding such shocks. It's a reminder that in our quest for progress, we must not overlook the foundational principles of stability and preparedness. The fragility of our current system has been laid bare; let this serve as a catalyst for meaningful change and a reevaluation of our dependencies on digital infrastructures. And who is accountable? Should Change Healthcare be responsible if a business fails? What what are the implications from this type of decision. Only through such introspection and action can we hope to safeguard our way of life against the inevitable uncertainties of the future.