For all the countries that rank low on lists of best healthcare systems, there are always some that take the top spots. These countries understand what it takes to deliver high-quality healthcare to their citizens, and they don’t settle for anything less than excellent. For comparison’s sake, here are the 10 best healthcare systems in the world, along with some aspects that set them apart from other health systems around the globe.
1. Norway
The healthcare system in Norway is often cited as one of the best in the world. It is a universal system that provides high-quality care to all citizens. In addition, it is free at the point of service and has a very low rate of medical errors.
One of the reasons Norway’s healthcare system is so strong is because it is highly centralized. The government regulates and funds most of the country’s health services. This allows for better coordination between different providers and makes it easier to ensure that everyone has access to care.
Norway also has a very strong focus on preventative care. The country offers free or low-cost health screenings and vaccinations for all citizens. It also invests heavily in public improvement health campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles.
2. Sweden
The Swedish healthcare system is often cited as one of the best in the world. It is a publicly-funded system that provides universal coverage to all residents. There are a variety of care options available, from primary care to specialist care. The quality of care is high, and waiting times are relatively low. Sweden also has a strong focus on preventative care, which helps to keep costs down.
3. Spain
Spain has a population of over 46 million people and a life expectancy of 82 years. The country has a public health care system that is funded by the government and compulsory health insurance. In Spain, you can choose your own doctor and there are no waiting lists for elective surgery.
The Spanish healthcare system is ranked as one of the best in the world by the World Health Organization.
4. Switzerland
The Swiss healthcare system is often cited as one of the best in the world. It is a universal system that covers all residents, and it is mandatory to have health insurance. The quality of care is high, and patients have a lot of choices when it comes to their care. There are also a number of private health insurers that offer supplemental coverage.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands has a long tradition of providing high-quality healthcare to its citizens. The country has a universal health care system that covers all residents. Healthcare in the Netherlands is characterized by high levels of patient satisfaction, good access to care, and relatively low costs.
The Dutch system is also known for its strong primary care sector and its focus on preventive care.
6. Italy
Italy’s healthcare system is one of the oldest and most comprehensive in the world. It is a public system, but there are also a number of private providers. Italy has a two-tiered system, with a basic level of care provided for free or at a reduced cost by the government, and more specialized or expensive services available from private providers.
The Italian health care system is ranked as the seventh-best in the world by the World Health Organization.
7. Germany
Germany has a universal multi-payer system with two main types of health insurance: Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) and Private Health Insurance (PHI).
All employed persons in Germany are legally required to have SHI, which is funded through payroll taxes. PHI is not mandatory, but most Germans have it as a supplement to SHI. The German healthcare system is renowned for its high quality, efficiency, and patient satisfaction.
8. Japan
In Japan, everyone is required to have health insurance.
Premiums are split between employees and employers, with the government picking up a portion of the tab for those who are unemployed or otherwise unable to pay.
The result is nearly universal coverage, with just 0.5% of the population uninsured.
Japanese also have access to some of the best hospitals in the world.
In addition, they can take advantage of preventive care and screenings at little or no cost.
These measures help keep people healthy and out of the hospital, which keeps costs down for everyone involved.
It’s no wonder that Japan consistently ranks as one of the healthiest countries in the world.
9. France
The French health care system is one of the most comprehensive in the world. It is also among the most efficient, with a low per capita expenditure. The system is based on a compulsory insurance model, with contributions from both employers and employees.
There are also subsidies for those on low incomes. The French health care system covers a wide range of services, including hospital care, primary care, and long-term care. It also has a good record on public health, with high rates of immunization and screening for cancer and other diseases.
10. Australia
The Australian healthcare system is one of the most efficient and cost-effective in the world. It is a mix of public and private sector provision, with around 70% of funding coming from the government through taxation. Australia has a population of around 24 million people and spends around 9% of its GDP on healthcare.
This puts it in the top 10 countries in terms of spending as a percentage of GDP. In terms of outcomes, Australia ranks highly too. It has a life expectancy of 82 years and a relatively low infant mortality rate of 3.8 per 1,000 live births.
Conclusion
The United States has the most expensive healthcare system in the world but is ranked 37th in quality.
The United Kingdom has a National Health Service that provides free care for all citizens and is ranked 18th in quality.
Germany has a mix of public and private insurance, with the government covering those who cannot afford insurance and is ranked 4th in quality.
France also has a mix of public and private insurance, with the government subsidizing those who cannot afford it and is ranked 1st in quality.
Canada has single-payer universal health care, which means that everyone is covered by the government health insurance plan, and is ranked 30th in quality.
