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Mixed feelings on this one. Knowing that some docs are opting out of Medicare and especially Medicaid arrangements already, what happens when there is no private sector payments to, albeit unfairly, cover the difference? Rationing a la NICE? Even less doctors when there is already a shortage of GPs? Of course, I wonder about the cost of visits. Eg. Requested payment for a 30 minute onc vist: $320?? Medicare knocks that down severely(around half) and pays 80%. Not sure if Medicaid pays less. But I imagine private sector insurance, like mine, pays the full price. I guess I feel conflicted about this because I appreciate the flexibility my folks have but wonder whether it would be sustainable in similar fashion if this was extended to all. Even with them, I have already encountered invisible rationing in the sense that things weren't offered simply because the doc assumed they weren't covered by Medicare. First off, they turned out to be wrong..it was covered. Secondly, they only looked into it after a meeting was held with multiple specialists and I made it clear that if it was medically advantageous, "do it" and it would be paid for out of pocket if need be. I wish doctors would stay out of the finances and just present medical options/opinions. I would like to see a national examination of nationalized health care around the world and see what does and doesn't work...and seriously consider the dynamics of our own country relative to that. Some countries have NH but most folks there have supplemental private insurance. I think Australia is like that. And furthermore...(blah blah blah)
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