Well, I've had the pleasure to receive health care in 3 different countries, and 4 different US States. And. . .the big difference is ACCESS for all, and PRICE.
Both in "universal health care" countries and in the US, you have choices to receive "motel 6 care" or "Hilton" care. For exemple, in Belgium, the "regular" (private or public) insurance would cover a "common" (2 or 3 beds) room at 100%, and, if your condition requires (i.e., severity, or risk for infection, etc. ..) they would also cover the "private" (one bed) room at 100%. However, if you prefer to go to a private room, you would have to pay the difference (probably about $50 a day) between the private and the "common" room.
But, at least, NO ONE is turned away because "they don't have health insurance," even for minor diagnosis.
It is true, however, that the hospitals in Europe are usually not as "marble and stainless" as those in the US. In fact, there are still MANY hospitals that date from WWII or before! But they have been updated and renovated, and provide excellent care and. . . just a little meaningful anecdote, though. . .
The rate of death from hospital infection is significantly lower in those "old, dingy" hospitals than it is in the US hospitals.
If you would like a link for that last statement, I'll be happy to provide one!
