eli5: How come health care cost so much more in America vs. other countries?

Question

I understand that insurances covers part of the cost. However, the total cost (before coverage) is still much higher in America. Why?

Is the supply chain different? Are doctors and staff paid better in America?

In: 188

Answer 1

It’s what the market will bear. Our choice is pay the price or go without care.

We have insurance to keep the real cost obscured so most of us don’t realize how much more our system is costing us until we get really sick. Then most of a middle or lower middle class persons weath is transfered into the hands of the wealthiest as they spend down all their resources to get the care they need.