I feel fortunate that I live in a country where most medical costs are paid through taxes. Those that are not covered fully are heavily subsidised. Medicines cost NZ$3.00 per prescription (about US$2.50) and a doctor's visit NZ$25.00. Public hospitals are free. The only disadvantage I can see is that there is often a long waiting list for non-urgent cases.

I have chosen to pay for some tests instead of waiting. An MRI scan cost me NZ$1800.00 and a neurologist cost NZ$450 per hour. I pay membership fees to the Saint John Society (they provide most ambulance services around the country), so I get a free ambulance service. The service is subsidised through taxes, but non-members pay about NZ$45.00 per call-out. Family membership costs NZ$55.00 per year, but I usually round it up to NZ$100.00. As I have already used their service 3 times this year, it's money well spent.

I know health insurance is a hot topic in many parts of the world and particularly in the USA. As I see it, health insurance may be cheaper than taxes if you are wealthy, but if you're poor, it is way beyond your means.