Quote Originally Posted by Vio&Juni
In Moldova, a few years ago, after 50-60 years of "free medicine", we introduced the medical insurance. At the moment, we pay 2.5 percent of our total wage (no mater how many hours you work) and the employer pays the same 2.5 percent (used to be 2% last year). I want to mention that this is a tax and you cannot chose not to pay it. Only retired (medical included), jobless and students get it for free - and it should stay so. It is rather difficult and and financially not worth it to register as a jobless person, so, you can also buy the insurance for an amount that is around 100$ per year - a lot in Moldova.

This mandatory insurance gives you the basic medical care and emergency services. I was very sceptical how this would work, but, although there are still a lot of problems with this new system, I think in nature it's fair. I'd rather contribute the two and a half percent of my wage, knowing that the poor people also contribute their share than just simply paying for them too.
Our system here in Australia is the same, it's called Medicare.....it works fine.
We pay a small percentage in our taxes to, but if you want more higher services, such as private rooms in hospitals etc etc....then you can take out private insurance.....including a Medicare upgrade, but those extra premiums come out of your own pocket.
I think it's a good system, and it certainly works well......I think one of the main advantages of this scheme is that it keeps doctors honest.
Wombat