Health Care Systems Comparison: U.S. vs. France

Overview

• Healthcare is a major issue in the 2020 U.S. elections.
  • Democrats push for a government-funded model (Medicare for All).
  • President Trump campaigns against Obamacare.
• "Medicare for All" is a proposed universal single-payer system.
• France’s healthcare system is often cited as a successful model.

U.S. Healthcare System

• Unique "narrow networks" model where insurance dictates doctor choice.
• Significant costs for uninsured or underinsured individuals.
  • Example: A delayed doctor's visit can lead to more expensive ER care.
• High administrative costs (20% on bills due to insurance companies’ lobbying).

France’s Healthcare System

• Health care is covered from birth.
• Modeled after National Health Insurance for universal coverage.
  • Not socialized medicine, but government-financed.
  • Allows freedom of choice in doctors and medical decisions.
• Reimbursement model:
  • Patients pay out-of-pocket but are reimbursed 70-80%.
  • Voluntary supplemental insurance available.
• Price transparency and bargaining power to maintain low costs.
  • Administrative costs limited to 5.5%.
  • Utilizes the "carte vitale" for efficient billing.

Health Outcomes

• France has better or comparable health outcomes despite lower spending.
  • Lower infant mortality rate.
  • Higher average life expectancy.
  • Lower re-hospitalization rates.
• Encourages preventative care leading to better outcomes.

Economic Considerations

• Higher taxes in France fund the universal coverage.
  • French employers face restrictions due to high taxes.
• Lower doctor salaries in France compared to the U.S.
  • Medical education is free in France.
  • Lower malpractice insurance costs.

Challenges

• Some areas in France have less access to healthcare.
• Rising costs for patient care in some French hospitals.

Lessons for the U.S.

• France demonstrates universal coverage without restricting medical choice.
• Combines universal healthcare with private insurance effectively.
• Potential for cost savings and improved coverage in the U.S. by adopting similar principles.
• WHO praises France for efficiency and good health outcomes at half the costs of the U.S.

Conclusion

• France offers a model of successful universal healthcare that balances cost, coverage, and freedom for both patients and practitioners.