Cruising Sailors Forum Archive

All systems control costs, including

US insurance systems. It is true that there are some treatments that are not covered in some provinces here, but invariably they are unproven or incredibly expensive with low success rates. It differs from province to province. I'm pretty sure insurance plans have limitations as well. You can, of course, opt to pay for those treatments yourself. However, to suggest that "Care, medicines, treatment options are rationed. When your time is up, it's more or less subtle, but nature is going to run its course" is misleading. I don't know for sure how it works in the US but in most parts of the world when "your time is up" you do indeed die. Perhaps with a private plan you can avoid that oh so common result? I know for a fact that until that point our system works hard to keep you going. We have 4 elderly parents and many relatives who have enjoyed many extra years due to surgeries and ongoing treatments. I have several friends that have battled cancer or other serious illness. They have gotten the care they needed. In general the care has been extraordinary. I'm not suggesting that our system is perfect but it does work. I think there will always be rare or unusual cases that strain our particular circumstances but for the vast majority of people, if you have a health issue, care is provided.
Ultimately, the US will choose the system they want; I am very happy with ours.

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