[dominotw]

>I'm not sure what the general point is you're trying to make.

Point I was trying to make is that you are comparing HMO to NL insurance that allowed you to see specialist directly. I don't think thats a fair comparison unless NL requires all insurance to cover self referral to a specialist.

I know nothing about NL healthcare but according to their website

https://www.govt.nz/browse/health-system/gps-and-prescriptio...

" In most cases, you need to visit your General Practitioner (GP) first so they can refer you."

What kind of insurance did you have that allowed you to self refer ?

You seem to have compared apples and oranges and came to the conclusion that oranges rock.