In the current US system, if your employer does not provide (any|sufficient) insurance coverage, you have to get your own and there are a million options all ready to fleece you. It is almost impossible to comparison shop and choose between 100 bad options.
Yes, the mechanics are the same (go to doctor, get a bill), but your purchasing power as individual patient is really small compared to a whole country.
"In the current US system, if your employer does not provide (any|sufficient) insurance coverage, you have to get your own and there are a million options all ready to fleece you. It is almost impossible to comparison shop and choose between 100 bad options."
I've been using the ACA marketplace here in good ol' Alabama, and I've had the opposite problem. There are four choices, all from BC/BS.
Note: I love the ACA. I will fight for the ACA unless and until I'm presented with an actual better option. Prior to the ACA, I had options from other companies, none of which covered my major problem.
I agree many options are bad. Even employer insurance is expensive.
Where is the individual's purchasing power a part of that scenario? Regardless of the group or person paying the provider, the bill is still substantial. The main money saver between the types is in system efficiencies like removing overhead, or instituting restrictions.
Maybe other governments. Medicare has billions in fraud each year. The process for signing up for Medicare and Medicaid can be complicated. If you've ever served in the military or government you know how much waste can be involved.
Yes, the mechanics are the same (go to doctor, get a bill), but your purchasing power as individual patient is really small compared to a whole country.