My experience of the NHS in the UK is exactly the same. I've heard of some people gaming the system a little by using private insurance to supplement their heal

My experience of the NHS in the UK is exactly the same. I've heard of some people gaming the system a little by using private insurance to supplement their healthcare. Then they can get a referral to see a NHS specialist from a private doctor, so no waiting to see a GP who might not give you the referral you want anyway. Not to say that there aren't also significant problems with US healthcare.