The need to observe other systems

We have learned this year of the financial disasters of the NHS. Now we learn that the German Health System is in deep financial trouble although for some what different reasons. Too many hospitalizations, too many prescriptions, and too many people failing to pay their insurance. As we worry about our spiralling costs, which are much worse than in countries that provide universal coverage, we should learn, although that may not be possible, how to avoid the same traps, We continue to react rather than plan long term.