Health: What does good health really mean? The word "health" refers to a state of complete emotional and physical well-being. Healthcare exists to help people maintain this optimal state of health. In 2015, the population of the United States (U.S.) spent an estimated $3.2 trillion on healthcare costs. However, despite this expenditure, a study by the U.S. National Research Council, published in 2013, showed that Americans die at a younger age and experience more illness and injury than people in other developed countries. Good health is central to handling stress and living a long and active life.