4 ms·

Yea, well that is the result of our more socialized system. My better health care plan was canceled when the affordable care act was implemented, and I had to g

Yea, well that is the result of our more socialized system. My better health care plan was canceled when the affordable care act was implemented, and I had to get a worse one. These government healthcare systems (which, long story, I happen to be on now, I don't pay a cent) are even worse. You want to see someone, you need to get permission. First, get in line to get permission, then get in line to actually get the specialist. And there is no option to do it any other way. So I don't see how the European systems solve these problems. At least in the US, in some places, we still have choice.

servs 8y ago
In Sweden you don't really have a plan. Everyone is covered regardless including basic sick pay. You can have zero income, pay zero taxes and file zero forms and still be covered like everyone else. The maximum co-pay per year including everything (treatment, hospital, rehab, equipment, medication etc.) is $300 per year. Some other European systems are more like "US light" where you have to qualify and choose. Some employers in Sweden will cover private treatment, vaccinations and more extensive sick pay (you already get 80% of x1.5 of median income if you are employed). But it isn't really required.
nemesisj 8y ago
This is one of those misconceptions that’s constantly stated by Americans which couldn’t be further from the truth. I know, because I am an American and used to think that. Having lived in the UK for the last 7 years, yes for noncritical issues or elective procedures, you may have to wait a couple of weeks for an appointment (acute care is excellent by the way), but you always have a choice. You can pay for your own private insurance which is extremely affordable compared to the USA and go nuts if you want, or you can wait for the free care. It’s a better system, full stop. America is literally nuts with regards to healthcare.

servs 8y ago

In Sweden you don't really have a plan. Everyone is covered regardless including basic sick pay. You can have zero income, pay zero taxes and file zero forms and still be covered like everyone else. The maximum co-pay per year including everything (treatment, hospital, rehab, equipment, medication etc.) is $300 per year. Some other European systems are more like "US light" where you have to qualify and choose. Some employers in Sweden will cover private treatment, vaccinations and more extensive sick pay (you already get 80% of x1.5 of median income if you are employed). But it isn't really required.

nemesisj 8y ago

This is one of those misconceptions that’s constantly stated by Americans which couldn’t be further from the truth. I know, because I am an American and used to think that. Having lived in the UK for the last 7 years, yes for noncritical issues or elective procedures, you may have to wait a couple of weeks for an appointment (acute care is excellent by the way), but you always have a choice. You can pay for your own private insurance which is extremely affordable compared to the USA and go nuts if you want, or you can wait for the free care. It’s a better system, full stop. America is literally nuts with regards to healthcare.