zlacker

>>jasonc+(OP)
There’s degrees of “conquered”. Seat belts ‘conquered’ motor vehicle trauma before airbags did. Each new thing helps fill in the gaps left by the already-existing things.

>>taneq+wG
Yes and no.

I'll use an anecdote from my personal life. If you by some misfortune end up in the hospital for an extended time, you have an ever-increasing risk of being infected by drug-resistant bacteria. This happened to a loved one, and it's a tragic thing that will significantly reduce that loved one's lifespan.

Why does this happen? Antibiotics and filth. Antibiotics enable the awful management practices of this particular hospital. There aren't enough aides, the rooms and equipment are filthy, even the lunchroom is dirty. I sat visiting for weeks at a time a different times of day and night and never saw a mop, or a cleaning of surfaces that were soiled. Your average McDonald's kitchen is cleaner.

The economics of insurance are such that the consequences of these infections don't damage the bottom line.

For some people, airbags can discourage seatbelt use in the same way.

>>Spooky+VT
Wow, that sounds awful. I've only spent time in hospitals a couple of times but the ones I've been in (public or private) were always very professional and hygienic.

>>taneq+hV
That was my way experience as well, although I was mostly exposed to OB when my kids were born or post-surgical areas. Those are the moneymakers.

If you have an issue that requires observation and not ICU, it’s a different story. Look at the Medicare health ratings online and you’ll find plenty of examples unfortunately!