Quote:Ah here is the problem, its not just uncompensated ER visits, its uncompensated admissions, this paper puts it at 6%, the hospitals I have worked at have always told me its 10-20% (so maybe in the middle?). Either way not insignificant.

 

"uncompensated care – free or reduced cost care for patients who need financial assistance or shortfalls from patients unable to pay for care – amounts to 6% of total hospital expenses." http://www.aha.org/content/11/11costtren...report.pdf

 

This seems like the other side of the coin wherein hundreds of thousands go bankrupt due to medical bills. Unfortunately, given the lack of transparency in the system, I have no idea of the true impact of this lack of compensation. If it is partial payment of those $1000 aspirin Samjag talked about earlier (obvious hyperbole from the OP, but you get the drift) I don't have too much concern. But regardless, it is a system where millions do not have access, hundreds of thousands are financially devastated, tens of thousands die due to lack of care, and we spend more than any of the other countries.  

 

I have posted my thoughts on why this situation occurs, but am curious as to yours. How is it that all of the other countries can do so much better and spend so much less? Or do you disagree with the premise that they are doing better and spending less?

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