Health care is a polarizing topic for Americans. But no matter where we stand on specifics, one overarching idea gets very little opposition: It's clear that our health care system is broken.

When I was nine, doctors diagnosed me with a brain tumor. Thankfully, it wasn't cancerous, but it did knock out a crucial valve that I needed to release pressure on my brain. I've needed an artificial valve, called a shunt, ever since. Between brain surgeries, MRIs, new doctors, and unexpected medical bills, I can tell you firsthand that our system is far too complex.

My experience as a young patient led me to spend nearly two decades in the employee benefits space. What I've seen over that time is an industry that's failed to meaningfully serve consumers.

Why is it broken?

Costs continue to increase at an unsustainable rate. Our highly complex system lacks transparency in both cost and quality. In an effort to curb this trend and push better access and decisions, our industry continues to roll out more programs, point solutions, and "game-changing" strategies. While intentions are mostly good, instead of solving problems, this never-ending cycle creates additional struggles with employee education and engagement.