Would I Prefer the US Healthcare System as a European?

While residing in the United States since 2000, my experience with healthcare systems across Europe has given me a valuable perspective. You might be curious about how I would feel about the US healthcare system from a European standpoint. No, I would not prefer it.

First, let me explain my current healthcare situation in Germany. In 2023, through payroll deductions, I paid approximately 4,000 Euros for the public health insurance. This insurance covers all the healthcare needs that I might have, ranging from preventative measures to necessary rehabilitation and training services. The out-of-pocket expense for medicines is minimal, making it affordable and convenient for me.

Public Insurance Benefits

It’s important to mention that in 2023, due to childhood dental work needing replacement, the public insurance covered only simple fillings. I had to purchase an additional private insurance package which was around 330 Euros in 2023. This package covers additional services beyond the necessary minimum provided by public insurance, including treatments abroad and repatriation. Overall, the German system ensures that healthcare remains affordable to everyone, significantly reducing the risk of financial ruin.

A Personal Perspective from Sweden and Norway

I am from Sweden, and I have also lived in the USA. If I had a choice, I would eagerly switch the current system in the USA to the Swedish model. In the Swedish system, there is no need to worry about bills when accessing care. I have faced the discomfort of paying for my own healthcare twice, and it was a harsh experience. The financial strain seemed inevitable, and at one point, I was close to selling everything just to return to Sweden.

Now, as someone from Norway, my experience with healthcare there is quite unique. While Norwegian citizens pay around 3 to 5% of their income for healthcare, it can be confusing due to additional taxes and insurance costs. A study has shown that the actual cost for services used is about 3% of income. In Norway, there are no deductibles, and the maximum cost for a doctor visit, including medications, is up to 300 US dollars per year. Additionally, there are no copayments, and all hospital stays are free.

I currently pay approximately 20 US dollars per month for a private health insurance that primarily covers new drugs before they are approved in Norway. My healthcare experience in Norway has been quite different from the US. One thing that stands out is the absence of financial stress when needing medical assistance. The healthcare system in Norway is structured in a way that it ensures citizens do not face the terror of medical bankruptcy.

Comparison with the US Healthcare System

The US healthcare system is entirely different and often considered terrifying, especially when considering its dependence on one's employer for coverage. Requiring payment for childbirth is particularly concerning. In Norway, it used to be the law that a citizen could be declared outlaw and deported for failing to celebrate the birth of a child. For a new Norwegian, the birth of a child places a significant debt on the community and country.

Imagine a sunny day in Hell, envisioning the declaration of medical bankruptcy by a person who gave birth to the Messiah. Both the n?ng burden and the system's approach towards childbirth and healthcare expenses in the US seem incompatible with the values of modern society.

Conclusion

From my personal experiences, it becomes evident that the healthcare systems in Europe, particularly in countries like Germany, Sweden, and Norway, offer a level of affordability and accessibility that the US healthcare system often lacks. Transitioning to one of the European models would indeed be a commendable step towards a more humane and equitable healthcare system. The dignity and peace of mind that come with knowing one's healthcare needs are met, regardless of financial status, make the difference significant.