Is single-payer healthcare the answer to the healthcare crisis in the United States?

One of the greatest arguments against single-payer healthcare is over-regulation. Some argue that single-payer healthcare in the United States would limit medical options. Others are concerned that doctors would not be adequately reimbursed for services.

Yet, current healthcare costs and uninsured patients continue to increase. Perhaps it is time for the United States to take a closer look at countries with single-payer healthcare systems.

Here's a list of such countries.

Australia

Australia's universal healthcare system is one of the best in the world. Federal, state, territory, and local governing bodies share the responsibility of regulating healthcare.

One benefit of Australia's healthcare system is the Safety Net Threshold. If a citizen reaches their annual Safety Net Threshold for medical services, their out-of-pocket costs are reduced for the rest of that year. This ensures citizens won't ever have to claim bankruptcy because of healthcare debt.

Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Germany

These four nations have single-payer healthcare systems. This type of system provides universal coverage to its national residents at no cost or low cost out-of-pocket expense. Each system is funded through taxes and municipalities.

Each nation has a national health agency to oversee the regulation of healthcare and medical licensing. Regulations include standardization of treatment, preventative care, and mapping treatment pathways. This reduces the discrepancy of care across all regions.

Denmark and Norway recently joined together to create an external pharmacology pricing system. This will control the prices of medicines and keep them affordable for all patients.

An interesting fact about Sweden's medical schools is that they are tuition-free. Only a limited number of applicants can attend, but those accepted do not pay for their training.

Canada

The cost of healthcare in Canada is low because the government and the medical profession are committed to working together. Wisely, Canada involves doctors and nurses in developing healthcare policy. This helps create relevant treatment options with common expectations.

Doctors determine which services are medically necessary and the government budgets costs. Whereas, in the United States, medical services and costs are set by private insurance companies.

Canada is currently reforming the high cost of prescription medicine for its citizens. New regulations now prohibit pharmaceutical companies from overcharging for patented drugs. Online pharmacy discounts also help curb rising healthcare costs in Canada.

Let's Emulate These Countries with Single-Payer Healthcare

There will likely never be a perfect healthcare system. As technology advances, research needs change. As our elderly are living longer, elder-care needs become better and cheaper. And, as new disease and epidemics emerge, change is necessary.

While these things will continue to evolve, it is necessary to adapt along with them. These countries with single-payer healthcare have made universal coverage a priority. Maybe it is time the United States follows their lead.

Keep reading our blog for informative articles.