At Cross County Cardiology, our hearts go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Brian Thompson, a son, husband, father, and leader of thousands of UnitedHealth Group employees, whose life was tragically taken in a senseless act of violence. This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the growing risks faced by healthcare professionals, who dedicate their lives to serving others, often under immense stress and with limited systemic support.
Healthcare providers across the country are increasingly grappling with challenges that extend beyond the clinical setting. A recent article in The Wall Street Journal highlighted the frustrations many face daily: prior authorization delays, adverse events caused by insurance bottlenecks, and the mounting pressures of navigating a system that sometimes hinders more than it helps. These systemic issues aren’t just frustrating—they’re dangerous, with healthcare workers being at higher risk of violence simply because of the nature of their jobs.
As a practice, we have these conversations with our patients every day. We see their frustrations, share their concerns, and work tirelessly to advocate for their care within a flawed system. It’s essential to acknowledge that these frustrations are not unique to any one individual or institution—they are symptoms of a larger, nationwide problem. Patients are not alone in feeling the weight of these challenges, and we stand with them in recognizing the urgent need for change.
That said, we also believe it’s critical to approach these issues with empathy and humanity. As Brian Thompson’s story reminds us, behind every role—whether a physician, an insurance executive, or a healthcare provider—is a human being with loved ones and aspirations. While it’s natural to feel frustration with the system, directing that anger toward individuals is not acceptable in a civilized society. Violence and hatred only deepen the divides we must work to bridge.
The U.S. healthcare system, as it stands, is undeniably unsustainable. Its design is shaped by the decisions of elected and appointed officials who must be held accountable for enabling a system that often prioritizes profit over patient care. However, change cannot come through division and animosity. It requires collaboration, advocacy, and a shared commitment to reclaiming our humanity in the face of systemic failures.
At Cross County Cardiology, we are dedicated to being part of the solution. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide compassionate, patient-centered care while advocating for systemic changes that improve access, equity, and outcomes for all.
Let’s stand together—patients, providers, and policymakers alike—to demand better, while saying no to hatred and violence in all forms. Change begins with us, and it starts with empathy, understanding, and action.
In memory of Brian Thompson and in solidarity with all those working toward a better healthcare future,
The Cross County Cardiology Team
