why doesn't America work toward free health care for its citizens like Canada does?

Question

some interesting answers. i just figured i would through that thought out there.

Answer 1

Why don't you just move to Canada?

Answer 2

Well for starters our health care is not free, we are taxed based on income. While it has its flaws, including some long wait times the number of people who do not wait out weighs the number that do. We have discovered many advances in diabetes, and some cancers in this country that are saving lives. You will also hear about people going to the states for treatment, yes that happens but it is paid for by the health care system. Plus what our government gets billed for us to go there and what Americans pay are nowhere near the same, so you know the US system is a cash cow riping people off. The best part of the the system it isn't a worry how you are gonna pay for treatment when you walk in to the hospital bleeding from the eyeballs. I have experienced both systems and all I can say is the patient comes first up here, not HMO's and who will pay for what. I have never brought or needed my cheque book at the hospital. Also as a bonus my employer gives me 100% coverage for meds, dentistry and glasses/contacts. They can afford it because 90% of the work is already done through taxes.

Answer 3

The UK is also set up with a free healthcare system that comes from tax money. You're on the mercy of whatever doctor is there that day. But on the flip side, some care is better than no medical care at all. There are so many people that can't afford medical care or medicine's they should probably be on - so the just don't go. That's a horrible feeling to need to be treated but are deathly afraid of the enormous bill they'll get hit with.

To answer your question, I think American's would have an absolute sh!tfit over the huge raise in taxes.

Answer 4

Because the level of care in the United States is 10 times that of Canada. I've known many people who have worked as health care professionals in both countries, and they all say the same thing: the standard of care is MUCH better in the U.S.

Not to mention the fact that I provide for my family, I should not have to pay for the lazy jobless leaches on society who don't.

Answer 5

I have Canadian relatives. Their Medical system is really bad. It does not provide adequate care for the truely sick.

I also worked for the VA. Handing over medicine to the Federal government is not a good idea. Look at Walter Reed.

Nothing is free. For most, you end up paying more in taxes. Administrative cost will build up and corruption will take a bigger bite.

Answer 6

Because it would be yet another example of the government taking money away from people as part of a mandatory social program.

For those who don't have money, or for those who want to participate, that's fine. But for those who don't want to participate, it's just another example of the government deciding what's best for everyone.

Then again, given how efficient (not!) the US government is about its other social programs, its throwing worse money after bad.

Answer 7

Because everyone complains about paying taxes. The only way to have free health care is to pay a crap load in taxes.

Answer 8

Because big Yank private health care providers would not like that. PS. it spells throw not through buddy.

Answer 9

You will find that Canadians are fine with their medical care when dealing with minor and some severe ailments. But if they have something serious...and have money...where do they come for medical care? They come to the US.

The free market for medical care is a catch 22 really...it helps good Dr's be successful and earn what they deserve thus helping more people...but it also means some people just can't afford to receive that care....and well...i think we know what that means.

Answer 10

In a plutocratic Corporatocracy there is no room for compassion only the bottom line counts.