What we're really trying to do is level out the health care system. It has gotten so one-sided as more and more people have been put into managed care; in fact, about 70 percent of the patients in the country.

In this quote, Charlie Norwood addresses the imbalances in the health care system and expresses the goal of creating a more equitable structure. He emphasizes the need to level out the system, which has become increasingly skewed, particularly with the growing dominance of managed care. Managed care refers to a system where health insurance companies take a more active role in controlling costs, services, and treatment decisions. Norwood suggests that this system has led to a disproportionate focus on cost-control measures rather than patient-centered care.

Norwood points out that a significant portion of the population—around 70 percent—is now enrolled in managed care. This growing shift has resulted in what he views as an overly one-sided approach to healthcare, where financial concerns sometimes take precedence over the needs of patients. By drawing attention to this statistic, he highlights the widespread nature of the issue and implies that many people are now subject to a system that may not always prioritize their best interests or individual health needs.

The ultimate goal, according to Norwood, is to find a balance that ensures fairness and better access to care for all individuals, not just those who can afford the most comprehensive health plans. His statement reflects concerns over the increasing privatization of healthcare and the effects of profit-driven systems on patient outcomes. Norwood advocates for reforms that would create a more balanced and effective system that serves the needs of all patients equally.

In essence, Norwood is calling for a rethinking of how the healthcare system is structured, urging a shift away from a system that is heavily focused on profit and efficiency at the expense of patient care. The quote reflects his commitment to achieving a more just and equitable healthcare system for everyone.