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

In most of the world, health insurance is provided by the government as a basic social service like roads, police and firefighters, clean water, etc.

In America, health insurance is provided by private for-profit companies. As for-profit corporations, their #1 priority is “make more money this quarter than we did last quarter”, not “provide health care”.