It's just so confusing. So you pay your taxes, but you don't get free healthcare? So you have to pay taxes AND for your health care? Why do people put up with this? It's so wrong. What about all the poor people? How do they pay for it (pre and post Obamacare)?

Also, say if I, a British citizen, got injured whilst visiting America, would I have to pay? In the UK, if you an American citizen gets' injured, we provide your healthcare for free, don't we?

Can someone explain it to me please, thanks.

I guess you have to buy a health insurance thing. It's silly.

Free healthcare is not a common thing.

There's a lot to explain honestly. There's this thing call health insurance and it's usually provided by your jobs or bought privately.

Every first world country should be able to provide its citizens free healthcare.

Yes we pay taxes and pay for private insurance. Pretty sure taxes are lower, though.

Low income people can get coverage on a government program called medicaid.

Honestly, no. If I was going to drag the US, I'd start with lobbying and the money in its political system.

Can you explain Medicaid for me in one sentence?

Medicaid is basically healthcare for low-income individuals and is provided by the state and has low taxes but almost everything is covered. States receive federal funding to accomplish this provided they follow their guidelines for medical care.

Thanks.

I've always wanted to know what happens if you're uninsured and you need emergency health care ie if you have a heart attack? I'm guessing the hospital wouldn't just let you die

I think they treat you then give a bill.

No, they wouldn't actually push you out of the room and leave you to die. You'll get treated but the bill will leave you completely broke.

Omg not a bill
What happens if you can't afford it? Are there any stories of families being bankrupted because of having emergency healthcare?

Unfortunately millions of Americans are uninsured so crippling medical bills tend to affect them when they get sick. There are several things you could do. Set up an installment plans and negotiate/explain your situation, get assistance from others, check your bills thoroughly. But bankruptcy is usually the endgame sadly.

This is what a lot of people want changed. Even with Medicaid people still aren't covered.

Would you prefer a similar system to the UK? I think this is so sad.

I'm not familiar with the UK healthcare system.

Nearly everything except cosmetic/vanity procedures is covered by our taxes.