American Healthcare Glitzy

Penelope Scott's song "American Healthcare Glitzy" is a raw and unfiltered critique of the American healthcare system, delivered through the eyes of a disillusioned doctor. The song begins with a stark childhood memory of witnessing death, setting the tone for the harsh realities that the protagonist will face throughout their life. This early encounter with mortality shapes their desire to help people and make a difference, a noble aspiration that is systematically crushed by the very institutions meant to support it.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's journey through medical school and into their career, highlighting the initial optimism and dedication to saving lives. However, this idealism is gradually eroded by the pervasive influence of corporate greed, government bureaucracy, and systemic corruption. The repeated imagery of "flies" buzzing in the protagonist's ears symbolizes the constant, nagging presence of these corrupting forces, which drown out their original purpose and passion.

Scott's use of explicit language and direct accusations against corporate and governmental entities underscores the deep frustration and anger felt by many healthcare professionals. The refrain, "I did not become a doctor just to suck the devil's dick," is a powerful declaration of the protagonist's disillusionment and refusal to be complicit in a system that prioritizes profit over patient care. The song ultimately serves as a poignant commentary on the moral and ethical compromises forced upon those who enter the medical field with the intention of helping others, only to find themselves entangled in a web of greed and inefficiency.