Hi there,

Not sure if this is the right forum but I think so - if not the mods can move to the correct one

I work for a health insurer in the United States and as most US citizens know, the affordability of health insurance is getting more and more out of everyone's grasp. I hear the politicians go on and on about how the whole country should move to socialized medicine and that SCARES ME.

The only type of socialized medicine now (and I speak about my state only - Rhode Island) is the welfare/medicaid system. When I read the benefits of the health insurance for welfare I am amazed at how much better that insurance is compared to any insurance that you can buy on your own or through an employer. Currently, a person on welfare can get everything for free, this includes prescriptions, over the counter medication like tylenol or excedrine (it just has to be written on a prescription pad by the doc), a paid interpreter to go to a doctors appointment if needed, and in some circumstances taxi service. (many have said RI is the most generous state)

Now, when the politicians tout socialized medicine in this state, I know alot of people think they will get all the benefits that the current welfare system offers. I know that is not true, as alot of money is lost on that plan now and is made up by the taxpayers.

I wonder if my UK friends could share with me the top 5 good things about socialized medicine and the top 5 bad things. I have met a few people from England and Canada who didn't have much good to say.

Thanks!
Tranquility