[ForHackernews]

> Given that our government has proven incapable of subsidizing healthcare in a way that promotes a combination of efficiency and effectiveness

Massive unsupported assertion. Medicare is very efficient.

[maxerickson]

Whether Medicare covers the cost of services provided is at least controversial.

If it doesn't, then it just gets the benefit of being mandated to look efficient.

[ams6110]

Medicare doesn't cover "everything" though -- nor could it. No health "insurance" whether it is single-payer, private, public, can just open the checkbook for every patient.

[TheAdamAndChe]

Yes, but that doesn't mean that the American healthcare system is efficient overall.