Health and Human Behavior
Discussion - Universal Health Care in America?
Some people support the idea of universal healthcare in America where the government would be at the center of the medical system. It would be responsible for both providing direct services, and paying for people to receive care. Others, of course, oppose this idea and object to the heavy involvement of the federal government in matters of health. For this week's discussion, let's examine the advantages and disadvantages of a universal healthcare system by looking at how healthcare is delivered in other nations.
-After conducting an Internet search, identify one (1) country where the government pays for and delivers medical care to its citizens.
-Briefly, explain how healthcare is delivered in the country you selected. Consider questions like, how do people obtain coverage? What services can they receive? Are all services covered, or are there certain out-of-pocket expenses? Are people free to see any doctor they want when they want, or are they restricted in some way? How much does the government spend on healthcare? What about quality--are the services rendered considered good?
-Compared to the healthcare system of the United States, how does healthcare in the country you selected measure up? It is better, worse, or about the same?
-Should the U.S. consider adopting such a system? Explain why or why not.
Sample Solution
Country Selected: Canada
How Healthcare is Delivered in Canada
Canada has a universal healthcare system, which means that all Canadian residents are eligible for coverage. The government is responsible for paying for the majority of healthcare costs, and Canadians do not have to pay any premiums or deductibles for medically necessary services.
Full Answer Section
To obtain coverage, Canadians simply need to register with their provincial or territorial health insurance plan. Once registered, they will receive a health insurance card that they can use to access medical services. Canadians can receive a wide range of healthcare services under the universal healthcare system, including:- Physician visits
- Hospital stays
- Prescription drugs
- Diagnostic tests
- Surgery
- Preventive care
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Cosmetic surgery
- Non-essential prescription drugs
Characteristic | Canada | United States |
Universality | Yes | No |
Government involvement | High | Low |
Affordability | More affordable | Less affordable |
Accessibility | More accessible | Less accessible |
Wait times | Shorter wait times | Longer wait times |
Quality | Generally considered to be good | Generally considered to be good, but there are disparities in quality |