[luma]

I think what you're getting at is that in the US, people have a financial incentive to be healthier due to the cost of health care.

How is that working out? Does the average American eat healthier, do more exercise, consumer fewer drinks, or do fewer drugs?

[kenhwang]

I actually don't think it's working out. People in general are awful at risk assessment. But, Americans like their choice, even if it means the majority of them will make poor ones.

It's also a downward spiral. The more people are responsible for their own well being, the more they're opposed to "handouts". So those who do take of themselves and do responsibly manage risks I've noticed are the ones more opposed to socialized medicine.

[droithomme]

Hm, this is a good point. US provably has the greatest incentive to live healthy due to having the provably highest health care costs. That is a rational and reasonable argument. Yet you get downvoted for it which is interesting. I think you make a good point though.