Stress in developed nations

Most developed countries have seen their healthcare bill, as a percentage of the gross national product (GNP), rise considerably. However, interesting differences exist among countries (see Figure 6.2a), reflecting how they have balanced the iron triangle. In the case of the United States, the system has resulted in the greatest healthcare spending per person compared to other countries. Yet with more than 40 million uninsured Americans, this level of spending has not resulted in better access or better quality relative to other nations. Since the 1960s, U.S. employers have seen a major rise in their contribution to private health insurance, in addition to government-mandated taxes to pay for Medicare (see Figure 6.2b).