Our system is supposed to be more like lower-income people can buy cheap health insurance, rather than completely nationalized like Canada. They already get NO health care or run into an emergency room, costing themselves more than if they’d gone earlier and costing hospitals a ton when they have to cover the costs. I did that myself once right after college. I had to pay $100s more and the hospital had to eat like $600. It’s a genuine problem.

We’re already falling behind others on R&D in all science sectors, and while our healthcare is great for people who can afford it, it’s terrible/nonexistant for those who can’t. So I just can’t see that side of the argument having much merit. Also, talking to people in Canada or Europe, you don’t hear these kinds of horror stories and complaints, so I guess congrats on posting tabloid journalism to support your (or your character’s pov).

I know waiting times are supposed to be a problem, but we already have waiting times. People die waiting in emergency rooms, if you make a doctor’s appt. it’s probably several days in the future, etc.