Why Can’t the U.S. Offer Free Healthcare Like Canada and the United Kingdom?

The question of whether the United States can provide free healthcare, similar to that of Canada and the United Kingdom, is a topic of significant debate. It is often argued that the U.S. healthcare system is one of the most expensive in the world, yet it does not yield the best outcomes. This article explores the feasibility and challenges of implementing a universal healthcare system in the U.S., drawing on statistical evidence, personal anecdotes, and political context.

America’s Health Care Spending: An Unnecessary Burden

Despite spending more per capita on healthcare than any other developed nation, the U.S. continues to grapple with poor health outcomes. The current system is often criticized for its inefficiencies and high costs, which contribute to a significant portion of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP). According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare spending in the U.S. accounted for nearly 20% of its GDP in 2017, a figure that has only grown since then. This high expenditure does not translate into better health and well-being, making the argument for reform even more compelling.

The Political and Economic Landscape

The political climate and economic interests play a crucial role in the current healthcare landscape. The U.S. healthcare system is a complex web of private insurers, government programs, and a multitude of stakeholders with vested interests. These stakeholders, including lawyers, insurance companies, and pharmaceutical firms, often resist changes that could impact their profitability, leading to a resistance to implementing a universal healthcare system.

One notable example is the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. While the ACA aimed to expand healthcare coverage, it also faced significant opposition from various sectors, resulting in only minor tweaking of the system. As President Joe Biden stated in his Speak Truth to Power book, the current system is not sustainable and calls for a push towards a systemic change.

Personal Anecdotes and Real-Life Experiences

A personal story can highlight the struggles many Americans face due to the current healthcare system. Consider the case of an individual who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. This individual, working for a good job, thought they had adequate prescription drug insurance. However, they discovered that state-of-the-art GLP-1 type drugs like Ozempic (and its equivalents) were not covered. This means that without insurance, the individual would have to pay about $1000 for a month's supply of injections, a cost that is significantly higher than what it would be in countries like Canada and Europe.

A friend who works at a drugstore in Canada shared that Ozempic costs approximately 263 CAD (about 160 USD) without insurance, and in Europe, it can be even cheaper, around 120 euros. These anecdotes underscore the disparities in healthcare costs and access, demonstrating why a nationwide reform is necessary.

Historical and Inertial Factors

The history and inertia of the U.S. healthcare system contribute to its resistance to change. The current healthcare system was largely designed in the 1940s, a time when the country’s economic and social landscape was significantly different. Payments for medical care were based on a model that may no longer be optimal. Changing the entire system would require immense effort and a stronger commitment from policymakers than we currently see.

Moreover, the sheer size and complexity of the U.S. healthcare system make it challenging to overhaul. A significant part of the healthcare industry, including lawyers, insurance companies, and pharmaceutical firms, are heavily invested in the current system. Efforts to move away from a liability-based tort system, for instance, have been met with resistance. One must question how one can convince trial lawyers, who have effective political lobbying organizations, to support reforms that limit liability for medical providers.

A Call for Change

Despite the challenges, there is a growing momentum towards reform. The recognition that the current system is unsustainable and the need for systemic change are gaining traction. The book Speak Truth to Power by a former U.S. President highlights the urgent need for a push towards a more equitable and efficient healthcare system.

It is worth noting that countries like Canada and the United Kingdom have successfully implemented universal healthcare systems. These systems ensure that all citizens have access to necessary medical care without financial burden. While it’s true that such a system would require increased taxation, the long-term benefits, including improved public health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs, are significant.

As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of the American people and make healthcare accessible to all. Reforms must be driven by a commitment to change and a willingness to address the barriers that currently exist in the system.

Conclusion

The debate over whether the U.S. can offer free healthcare like Canada and the United Kingdom is one that touches on healthcare costs, economic interests, and the political will to effect change. While the current system presents challenges, there is a growing awareness of the need for reform. Moving towards a more equitable and efficient healthcare system requires a collective effort and a willingness to adapt to the changing needs of our society.