I'm no health care expert, but you've got technology that constantly advances the ability to extend life and maybe improve lifestyle. That puts constant upward pressure on health care costs.

In this quote, Steven Burd acknowledges that while he may not be a health care expert, he recognizes the growing influence of technology on health care. He highlights that advancements in medical technology continually improve the ability to extend life and potentially improve lifestyle. However, these advancements come with a cost—they put upward pressure on health care costs. Burd suggests that while technology has brought about positive changes in medical care, it also contributes to rising expenses in the healthcare system.

Burd is pointing out a critical challenge in the relationship between medical innovation and the economics of health care. As technology makes treatments and life-extending options more available, the financial burden on the healthcare system increases, potentially making these advancements harder to afford for individuals and families. This creates a tension between the desire for progress and the reality of cost management in health services.

The origin of this quote reflects Burd’s experience as a business leader and former CEO of Safeway, where he was involved in both health care management and the business side of healthcare systems. He has been a proponent of managing health care costs and exploring innovative approaches to health care delivery while understanding the pressures created by technology.

In a broader context, Burd’s statement addresses the complexity of balancing cutting-edge medical technology with the financial sustainability of health care systems. His words underscore the need for thoughtful solutions to ensure that advancements in technology are accessible and affordable for everyone, while also addressing the economic realities of maintaining a functional healthcare system.