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Out-of-pocket costs. In-network. Non-preferred providers. Concierge medical services. Out-of-pocket expenses. Fixed payment. Shared insurance. Insurance consultants. Insurance brokers. Medical advisors. Affordable Care Act. HMO. Preferred Provider Organization. EPO. Point of Service. HDHP. Health Savings Account. FSA. HRA. Explanation of Benefits. COBRA. Small Business Health Options Program. Single coverage. Family coverage. Premium tax credits.

Baffled? You should be. Who comprehends this complex system? Certainly not the average business owner. Neither the average worker. Choosing the right medical coverage for companies – or for households – seems like it requires a PhD in medical insurance.

Our Medical System Isn't Just Complex, It's Expensive

According to a recent study, typical households spends $twenty-seven thousand annually for their health insurance (increasing by 6% compared to last year). Typical company healthcare expense is expected to surpass $17,000 for each worker in 2026, a 9.5% jump from 2025.

Now the government has ceased functioning because partisan disputes over subsidies which analysts predict could cause a doubling of premiums for numerous US citizens.

When Might We Truly Examine Universal Healthcare?

When will we seriously consider universal healthcare coverage in the United States? I'm convinced we're approaching that point since this can't continue.

I'm not suggesting government-run medicine. I'm proposing for our current Medicare program – an established insurance framework – simply expand to include all citizens. Our infrastructure remains intact. The way medical professionals receive payment changes. Believe me, they will adjust.

How National Health Insurance Would Work

A national health insurance program would need contributions from employees and employers. In comparable systems, a worker making average wages must contribute about 5.3% to their healthcare. The company must contribute approximately 13.75%.

Does this appear like a lot? Not if you contrast that with what average US resident spends. I can name multiple businesses who are routinely paying between 8% to 15% of their employee wages to their healthcare costs. And keep in mind that with inclusive programs, these contributions include pension plans, illness coverage, parental benefits and unemployment benefits in addition to supporting healthcare facilities. When you add these expenses compared with what we pay on retirement programs, job loss coverage and paid time off, the difference decreases.

Implementation for America

For America, a national health premium would increase our Medicare tax deduction, a framework that is already in place. It ought to be income-adjusted – wealthier individuals would pay more than lower-income earners. There would be both worker and company payments. Similar to much of our government's defense, technology, welfare services and transportation services, the program could be managed to third-party administrators instead of a government office.

Benefits for Small Businesses

A national health insurance program represents a huge benefit for small businesses such as my company. It would place small companies in equal competition with our larger competitors that can pay for superior coverage. It would render management significantly simpler (a payroll deduction processed similarly to social security and Medicare taxes, instead of separate payments to benefit firms and insurance providers).

It would enable it easier to plan expenses our yearly costs, rather than going through the complicated (and fruitless) theater of bargaining with major insurers required annually each year. Because it's simplified, there would be improved comprehension about benefits among workers – as opposed to the current system which require them to interpret the complexities of existing plans. And there would certainly be reduced responsibility for employers since we wouldn't have access to workers' health histories for purposes of risk assessment and different options.

Capitalist Perspective

I'm as capitalist as possible. However I recognize that public institutions play important functions in society, including national security to supporting needed infrastructure. Providing healthcare to all through a national insurance system enhances our economy's infrastructure. It represents superior, easier system for small businesses that employ more than half of American employees and generate half of our GDP. It makes it possible for workers to enjoy better health, come to work more often and be more productive.

Considering Challenges

Are there a million considerations I haven't covered? Of course there are. Given rising medical expenses experienced recently, it's clear that current healthcare legislation isn't functioning effectively. I understand that America isn't a compact European nation where major reforms can be readily adopted. However extending universal Medicare, even with the additional taxes required, would remain a better and more affordable approach for not only controlling healthcare costs but providing access for all citizens.

Time for Realistic Evaluation

We as Americans, must tone down our own arrogance. Our healthcare system isn't so great. The US places well below many other countries in healthcare quality globally, according to comprehensive research. Perhaps a positive aspect in this present circumstances could be that we take a hard look at ourselves and acknowledge that major reforms need to happen.