The United States is one of the remaining countries in the developed world that does not have a single-payer health care insurance system in place. With the future of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act being uncertain, we hear continuing discussion as to whether the United States could (and/or should) adopt a single-payer system. Could a single-payer system be possible, even though it is forecast to cost trillions of dollars? How would it affect health care costs, coverage networks, types of covered vs. noncovered services, patient waiting times (for appointments, testing, procedures, and surgeries), coinsurances, and (finally) our taxes? Would currently working employees be required to give up their existing coverage for what will be provided under the single-payer system?
Once you have read the assigned background readings, as well as completed some peer-reviewed research of your own, address the following:
Describe an example of how a single-payer system (such as ‘Medicare For All’, as just one example) works in the United States.
Looking at examples of other countries with a single-payer system, what are the specific benefits of having such a single-payer system? Include at least three specific benefits, citing credible sources for your facts.
Looking at examples of other countries with a single-payer system, what are the specific drawbacks of having such a single-payer system? Include at least three specific drawbacks, citing credible sources for your facts.
Are you in favor of a single-payer system in the United States? Justify your position for or against this with credible sources.
