To feel sorry for American's as their healthcare system appears abysmal

[Wowthishurtsalot]

I'm a member of a support group for a health condition I have which is fairly rare, this support group attracts a global network of posters who draw on it for support and advice.

The American posters almost all have the same complaints:
'My insurance won't cover a referral to the right specialists'

'My insurance only covers one prescription a month so I have to pick and choose which attack I use it on' (the condition can mean you'll have several attacks or flares a month)

'I've had to quit work, I have no insurance and therefore no meds'

'My insurance doesn't cover/considers these meds non essential'

It's appalling. Its a condition that renders its sufferers in hospital several times a year but with the right medication can be managed. It can, in its extreme form, kill or trigger a life changing side effect.

How does that country function?! I Really count my blessings and am so grateful for the NHS when I speak to american sufferers or carers. AIBU?

[Darkandstormynight]

Wonkylegs, firstly per existing conditions cannot be held against you any more due to President Obama. Secondly, I have issues that are not emergency but annoying...skin problems for one. I'm glad when I'm miserable I don't have to wait weeks to get seen and get relief, no it's not am emergency but can make you miserable nonetheless.

I also am a cancer survivor. As survivors can be a bit obsessive when we notice a symptom that we had before, again possibly life threatening but not an emergency right now, I call and be seen today and my mind put at rest.

Your health care isn't free. You pay for it with your taxes.

[Darkandstormynight]

Sashh, 6K is what it costs when done under sedation. I'm claustrophobic and can't undergo a regular MRI.

[sashh]

Darkandstormynight

Seriously? Because you were sedated? It might be cheaper to travel to Europe for your next one, including flights and a hotel stay.

[sashh]

Comparison of a few systems around the world, thought it might be interesting for a few on here

www.theguardian.com/society/2014/oct/29/how-sick-are-worlds-healthcare-systems-nhs-china-india-us-germany

[cheesecakemom]

I was treated in an American hospital - my insurance covered it. It was a million x better than the UK! At least in that instance. I've also worked in a few hospitals there and I'm sorry to say from my perspective (also lived in the EU and outside the EU before), it really depends on many factors and how you look at it.

Yes they have issues but the NHS is worse in my opinion - it's not perfect and certainly worse. Being pregnant for the second time in the UK, this time I am not taking chances about giving birth in a Nhs hospital.