Those who believe that health is a commodity, on par with cars or computers, fail to grasp the basic economic lesson that health is very vulnerable to exposure to the markets, not least due to the profound asymmetries in power between the providers and consumers.

In this quote, Vikram Patel argues against the idea of treating health as a commodity, similar to cars or computers. He suggests that those who view health in such a transactional way fail to understand the deeper economic realities at play. Health is not a typical product that can be freely bought and sold in a market because it is particularly vulnerable to market forces. The healthcare system is fraught with asymmetries in power, where providers (doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies) hold significantly more power than consumers (patients), which can lead to exploitation and inequality in access and treatment.

Patel highlights the vulnerabilities of health within a market-driven system. Unlike goods such as cars or computers, which can be evaluated based on price and quality, healthcare is affected by factors like accessibility, affordability, and quality, all of which are often beyond the control of individual consumers. When health is treated like a commodity, it risks becoming inaccessible to those without sufficient resources, thereby deepening social and economic divides.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Patel’s background as a global health expert. As a psychiatrist and advocate for mental health and social justice, he has long emphasized the importance of viewing health as a basic human right rather than a market-driven good. His work, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, highlights the importance of addressing the structural inequalities that affect people’s access to healthcare and the risks of commodifying health.

Patel’s statement challenges the broader trend of privatization and marketization in the healthcare sector, urging a shift in thinking. Instead of treating health as something that can be bought and sold, Patel advocates for a more equitable approach to healthcare that recognizes the vulnerability of individuals and the need for systemic changes to protect the right to health for everyone, regardless of their economic standing.