Ironic Health Links

How Cubans’ Health Improved When Their Economy Collapsed Sometimes financial crises can force lifestyle changes for the better.

The doctors’ strike in Saskatchewan lasted 23 days and gained worldwide attention. While the doctors agreed to maintain emergency services and the provincial hospitals remained open with reduced staff, most private practitioners closed their offices. Ironically, the mortality rate in the province declined during the strike, primarily because of the decline in surgery.

Industrial action by doctors in Israel seems to be good for their patients’ health. Death rates have dropped considerably in most of the country since physicians in public hospitals implemented a programme of sanctions three months ago, according to a survey of burial societies.

These examples are far from conclusive but very interesting and deliciously ironic.