Understanding the distinction between universal health care and a single-payer system is critical

KevinMD July 4, 2019
Niran S. Al-Agba, MD

The World Health Organization describes universal health coverage — a system coupling health care access with financial protection for all residents — as the “single most powerful concept that public health has to offer.” The goal of universal care is to give all people the equal opportunity to enjoy the best health possible.

I wholeheartedly endorse universal health care, though not a single-payer system like “Medicare for all” because there is no provision for cost control in the legislation proposed by Representative Jayapal and others.

There are two countries in this hemisphere with true single-payer health care systems: Canada and Cuba. The pros...

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