(Germany's "Bismark Model") was the first formal social health insurance system, yes — the first government-regulated system. I believe it is still the best model there is, because it blends a private health-care delivery system with universal coverage and social solidarity. The financing is simple. It’s inexpensive and equitable. Coverage is portable. You’re never uninsured in Germany. No family goes broke over health care bills. Full Story »
Posted by Walter Cox
Fascinating interview about the German and U.S. health care systems with Princeton University Uwe Reinhardt. He gives a concise, factual overview of some key differences between our systems, and how they affect patients, doctors and insurers. Both insightful and informative article.
A very clear description of the German health care system, which finds its roots in early sickness funds begun under Chancellor Bismark in 1883. A big surprise was that the Germans introduced their system to the Netherlands, Belgium, and France--under Hitler! Despite this inauspicious beginning, the German system of public insurance was so popular that each country decided independently to retain it when WWII ended. This article accurately describes the workings of the system and answers many pertinent questions.
I lived in Belgium during the early 1960s when the suffering Europeans had endured under Hitler was still very fresh in people's minds. Our school was attended by students from all over Europe, and the Belgians, the Dutch and the French hated the Germans with a clear passion. I can think of no higher endorsement of the German healthcare system than the fact that these nations decided to keep the system despite their disdain for everything German.
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