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If you are traveling to America then you may be interested to know a little bit about the health care system. Here are some FAQs to consider.
Q: What should I know about the American health care system?
A: The American health care system is considered world-class in quality and is also the most expensive health care in the world. Back in 2000, the World Health Organization ranked America’s health care system as the highest in cost, the first in responsiveness and the 72nd in terms of overall health. Despite being consistently ranked behind other nations for health care quality, American health care continues to lead the way in medical innovation. The country also boasts higher survival rates overall.
Q: What about universal health care?
A: What’s unique about America is that its innovative health care is not free. In fact, it is the only wealthy and industrialized nation that does not provide free health care or ensure that all citizens have coverage when needed. That means that health care for the uninsured American resident can be very expensive. Patients will have to pay very high medical bills out of pocket or may be turned away from clinics or doctors entirely. There are also government subsidized health plans that assist low-income households.
Q: What if I am involved in an emergency?
A: Any American resident, expatriate or visitor can call 911 and summon emergency services to transport them to the nearest hospital ER. (You can also come to the ER on your own) Emergency rooms are required to treat patients regardless of their insurance or lack of insurance. However, the hospital will then present the patient with a high bill. Many expatriates believe that ER service isn’t worth it (unless the situation is critical) since it involves a long wait in a crowded area and can be absurdly expensive.
Q: Do I have any other options?
A: You do have the option of expatriate health insurance. This is a different form of insurance as the policy follows you to whatever land you visit. Expatriate insurance coverage may be based in America or may be based overseas. There won’t be much difference in price because American health care is expensive. In fact, not all expatriate providers will offer this type of coverage. Some companies only provide expatriate coverage to countries other than the U.S. Rest assured however, that you can find a provider to work with if you search diligently. Another advantage of expatriate health insurance is that it covers emergency evacuation.