Debate: French health care system

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Is the French hybrid public-private health care system a model for the world?

Background and context

The status quo of the United States health care system is not satisfactory. With so many ininsured and inable to acquire adequate health care, those seeking solutions are looking increasingly to the system that the French have. Some argue that similarities in our systems would make changes viable, however others argue that it would not produce the desired result, even leading to further economic decline. The French health care system, although also expensive, pays half as much money per capita. Because of these reasons, there are significant reasons for considering the option of a health care system similar to that of France's.

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Would the French health care system save money?

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Yes

The United States spends almost twice as much money per capita on health care than the French: "The French system is also not inexpensive. At $3,500 per capita it is one of the most costly in Europe, yet that is still far less than the $6,100 per person in the United States" Source: Boston.com

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No

The French and their employers have to pay so much of their income for health care that it is difficult to hire employees and to get a job, slowing down the economy and causing financial problems.

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Does the French system satisfy the needs and desires of the people?

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Yes

Testimonial: ABC News: The Health Care System I Want is in France

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No

Quality of the system is declining and the cost is increasing faster than France's economy can compensate: Source: France Should Copy the U.S. System

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Would the French health care system be viable in the United States?

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Yes

Both of our systems use private and government-based insurance companies where the insurance is usually provided by employers. The system is not socialist as in Canada and Britain, and there are no waiting lists for procedures and specialists. Also, their system does not give up choice of hospitals, doctors, etc. as it is believed to. Source: NPR

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No

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Pro/Con sources

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Yes

• The Health Care System I Want Is in France - M. Cline, ABC News, April 2008
• The Health Care System Under French National Health Insurance: Lessons for Health Reform in the United States - V. G. Rodwin, Am J Public Health. 2003 January; 93(1): 31–37
• Reprint of V. G. Rodwin, Am J Public Health. 2003 January; 93(1): 31–37
• Health Care Lessons From France - J. Shapiro, NPR

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No

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See also

• Debate: Single-payer universal health care

External links and resources

• Health Insurance in France & French Health Care by FrenchEntree.com