As a Canadian I don't understand US Healthcare!

[marko]

My conclusion from reading this is summarized this way.

If you are wealthy or have great insurance, (likely have COMPANY insurance) the US medical system whips the Canadian system. Why? because you get great treatment fast and it likely won't bankrupt you. (unless you have one of many exclusions or pre-conditions that are not covered, then you can go bankrupt unless you are rich)

If you are rich, there is NO comparison, the US wins hands down. The richest Canadians constantly go to the US for medical treatments even though they can get free health care or pay for private healthcare in some places right here in Canada.

If you are poor in the US, welfare pays the tab but the service may not be fast unless it's an emergency.

If you have no insurance or cannot afford insurance and/or are not poor enough then Canada whips the US, because people NEED medical care to thrive and in many cases survive.

Canada does some things better than the US and some things worse than the US. Canadian Healthcare, despite all its flaws, for the average citizen is superior in Canada.

Healthcare should not be in the hands of insurance companies despite the undeniable waste, less than perfect management, and corruption that is likely part of any government program.

A look at life expectancy tells a VERY strong story that suggests that one system has better 'results' than the other system (for the average person).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...ife_expectancy