Universal Health Care around the World:
- France- This is considered to be the top system. EVERYONE in France has health care and the sicker you are, the more coverage you get. The government pays 100% for 30 chronic, long-term conditions like diabetes and cancer including surgeries and medicines. This program is funded by income taxes and payroll.
- Germany- Virtually all Germans have health insurance with no waiting for elective surgeries or diagnostic tests. In Germany, premium costs are based on income; the more you make the higher the premium. Roughly 8% of your gross income goes to a nonprofit insurance company for a “sickness fund.” There are over 230 sickness funds to chose from.
- Switzerland- It’s the law to have health insurance. Regardless of income, health care premiums are the same for everyone but the government will provide subsidies for those who cannot afford it. Individuals are able to adjust their deductible to have lower or higher premiums.
- Canada- This universal system is called medicare but basically private insurance companies are needed so Canadians can get the stuff that the government isn’t paying. There is also a shortage of doctors and long lines for elective procedures.
- Taiwan- National healthcare created in 2005 and includes medications, inpatient/outpatient care, vision care, traditional Chinese medicine, and equal access to medical doctors regardless of wealth status. There are no approvals to see a specialist and each Taiwanese carries a “smart card” with their medical and prescription history. The bill goes automatically to the government.
- Cuba- Healthcare is a right in Cuba and given top priority. The plan is big on prevention, primary care, community service and citizen participation. Long lines are common and access to medicines may be limited.
- Netherlands- Health insurance is run by private insurance companies with the government regulating the cost. The Dutch have good relationships with their doctors and easily can make appointments to be seen the same day.
Other sites for information:
Congress.org (lets you know how the politicians voted)
Recovery.org (official sight for info on stimulus bill)
Cagw.org (citizens against government waste- tracks government spending)
Pogo.org (project on government oversight- monitors federal contractors)
Webster.senate.gov
Thomas.loc.org (Library of Congress)
Cop.senate.gov
Sunlightfoundation.com (posts the text of major bills)
Consumerfed.org (consumer federation of America- local groups working on issues)
Cited References:
· Organizing for America. Healthcare.BarackObama.com