The big problem in this country is lack of information.

The first case you mention is not typical and I have never heard of such with a reputable plan. I would bet that your friend either misunderstands his coverage or needs some counseling on insurance. I have no doubt that there are bad plans out there.

Regarding the retired couple, I have a friend that does the same thing. It is a choice he makes because he mistrusts an hmo (which I use) that provides excellent coverage under Medicare part B (no out of pocket cost to me). Many people in this country can't get over not picking up the phone book and picking any doctor they choose. Under this plan I pay $5.00 for any generic prescription and $30.00 for non-generic. PCP visits are $5.00 and specialists are $20.00. A stop loss clause in the $2000 range is in place for drugs and health care.

If you break a leg in this country you can do the same thing, except there is a small chance you might be turned away by a private hospital that operates with zero public money. Believe me, hospitals like that are few and far between. In addition to this, any hospital that accepts government money under the Hill-Burton act must give free treatment to anyone unable to pay, including childbirth.

If your freind is on welfare the last thing they should be worrying about is the cost. If he or she is getting the care, no one will expect payment. Hospitals and doctors know they can not get water from a stone. Get back to me when they start harrassing your friend.

MRI and Cat Scan - LOL, believe it or not, this does not typically happen. With the prevalence of hmo, you would be more likely to be denied such a test when you need it than vice versa. This is exactly what I mean when I say clueless.

I am not criticizing Canada's system. I am clueless about it. :)