subject: Health Insurance In Various Countries [print this page] Health Insurance is a commodity which is redeemed whenever an individual requires financial assistance to take care of a medical procedure or if he requires medical attention. It can be redeemed for preventive medical care such as general checkups to intensive and emergency care. There are different models in which countries operate to provide healthcare to their citizens. Some countries are more successful than others.
In Australia, public universal healthcare, which is called Medicare, is provided by the government requiring no payments by the individual. Financial support for this program is taken through taxes which are levied to all citizens, with a heavier tax burden falling on higher income individuals. It allows Australians access to any medical treatment as long as they follow all necessary requirements and are considered eligible. The private sector is run like most countries, where subscribers pay premiums and can claim their benefits when they require the financial assistance. The biggest insurance company is government-owned and runs like a regular business enterprise. Proceeds from this business go to the insurance fund of the subscribers and funding for government projects.
Canadian Health Care is funded by the government, which provides universal medical treatment to all citizens. The standards of healthcare provided by the Canadian government follow federal guideline so quality of care is assured. Most Canadians subscribe to the public health system, praising its simplicity and efficiency. This program is funded through income taxes. This model is particularly effective because the system encourages preventive care, reducing costs, since most cases are caught before there are complications.
Prescription medication's prices are negotiated by the federal government so the prices are affordable and stable. Additional insurance is also provided by private employers, covering benefits such as dental and other plans that may not have been covered by public health care. Individuals are free to choose their general physician, who can then refer them to any specialist needed.
Japanese public healthcare is mandatory for everyone, except for those enrolled in private insurance. Payment is shared by both the individual and the government, the majority of which is handled by the public system. Hospitals and clinics are mandated by law so that they are not allowed to be operated for profit, and must be managed by medical professionals. Individuals are free to choose their own physician and facility. Medical attention and care cannot be denied in the Japanese healthcare system. This is funded by the government through various taxes and funds. Foreigners who live within the country are not required by law to join any health insurance plan, but are strongly encouraged to take part in the public health coverage.
The United States of America is the only developed country which does not offer universal health care to its citizens. Health insurance in the United States is the most expensive among the different nations, where only those who are employed and earn above-average income can purchase health insurance. Public health care is underdeveloped, but emergency care cannot be withheld. There are many problems currently plaguing their healthcare system but measures are being taken to improve that.
by: Casey Trillbar
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