[Byte1]

An interesting but dated publication from the CATO institute compares health care in many countries "The Grass Is Not Always Greener" I think I already posted a reference to it, now that I think about it. It kind of reinforces what I have said many times.
We have excellent medical technology and professionals. The problem with expense is more in line with the regulations, which restricts competition of insurance companies; humongous malpractice insurance premiums; high drugs costs compared to what other countries pay for the same medications, etc. Tort reform would probably be a good start.
Remember, other countries are smaller. Also remember that because the cost in other countries providing for socialized health care, they must fund it by high taxation. I do not care about HOW someone rates our country, because I have lived in other countries and experienced thru the locals how their so-called "FREE" health care works.
I never said our health care system is perfect, but I would rather be here in an emergency or major illness than anywhere else in the world. Those that have only vacationed or "cruised" to other ports have no clue as to how their systems work. Sure, being able to go to a pharmacy and asking for an antibiotic without a prescription is pretty neat, especially when it only costs about $4-7 for a weeks supply.
Ask yourself this: would you give up being middle class for gov managed FREE health care? Maybe if you were dying.