in my corporate life I had operations in many countries, so I will pick one like Belgium (true for Germany as well)...when hiring or maintaining a new GM or Director guess what the two top priority issues were in the comp package? Not how much the salary would be. First was car of their choice with all expenses paid including the fuel!...usually a top end Mercedes or BMW. Second was health care provided in the USA when they were here for reviews, vacations, etc. Medications were not so much the problem as was acute care needs. It was very bureaucratic, with waiting lists for major surgery.
These are countries where health care is "free" as well as college education is "free"....just to name a couple.

With tax rates approaching 70% the salary was least important as long as it provided maintaining the appropriate life style.

Yes everybody was "entitled" to the free stuff....when it was your turn!!!!
And most noteworthy is the tax rate.

They were always in awe at how much more money executives here in the USA were able to keep.

If hospitals and doctors are overwhelmed in our current day....can you imagine the crush if it ever went to free?

If it ever gets to that proportion here, it is a sure bet there will be separate health care providers available for those who don't want the free stuff.

Capitalism and free enterprise are the only answer.....not free (because it isn't).

BTK