Single-Payer System

Single-payer is a system of financing for a scheme of Universal Health Insurance—coverage for all regardless of age or current health status or preexisting medical conditions. Under this system the government would pay for all types of health care by assessing a tax, eliminating the need to pay insurance premiums, deductibles, or co-payments. Supporters claim that the increase in taxes would be modest and that since insurance companies are not involved, there would no longer be restrictions on service providers, which would increase one’s freedom to choose health providers. And under a single-payer system, doctors and hospitals would be freed from checking on insurance details so that they can focus on providing the necessary medical [Page 1481]services. However, politicians are reluctant to raise taxes. And ...