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Deductibles. Preferred providers. Out-of-network. Concierge medical services. Out-of-pocket expenses. Fixed payment. Co-insurance. Insurance consultants. Coverage agents. Healthcare consultants. Affordable Care Act. Health Maintenance Organization. PPO. EPO. Point of Service. HDHP. HSA. FSA. Health Reimbursement Arrangement. Explanation of Benefits. Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. Small Business Health Options Program. Single coverage. Family coverage. Premium tax credits.

Confused? It's understandable. Who comprehends this complex system? Certainly not the average entrepreneur. Neither the average employee. Choosing the appropriate medical coverage for companies – or for our families – seems like it requires advanced expertise in healthcare.

Our Healthcare System Isn't Just Complex, It Is Expensive

Based on recent research, the average family spends $twenty-seven thousand annually for their health insurance (up 6% compared to last year). Typical company healthcare expense is projected to surpass $17,000 per employee in 2026, an increase of 9.5% compared to 2025.

Currently federal operations is shut down due to political disagreements over tax credits which analysts predict could cause a doubling of premiums for numerous US citizens.

When Might We Seriously Consider Universal Healthcare?

How soon might we seriously consider universal healthcare coverage in the United States? I'm convinced we're approaching that point because this can't continue.

I'm not suggesting national healthcare. I'm proposing that our already existing Medicare program – an established insurance framework – merely extend to include all citizens. Our infrastructure remains intact. How medical professionals receive payment changes. Trust me, they'll adapt.

How Universal Coverage Would Work

Universal healthcare coverage would need payments from workers and companies. In similar programs, an employee earning average wages must contribute approximately 5.3% to their healthcare. Their employer must contribute approximately 13.75%.

Does this appear like a lot? Not if you contrast that with what average US resident spends. I can name multiple businesses that are easily contributing between 8% to 15% of their employee wages for medical benefits. And keep in mind that with comprehensive systems, these contributions include pension plans, sick pay, parental benefits and unemployment benefits in addition to supporting healthcare facilities. When you add those costs versus what we pay for our retirement plans, unemployment insurance and vacation benefits, the difference decreases.

Implementation for America

For America, a national health premium would raise our Medicare tax deduction, a framework already established. It should be income-adjusted – wealthier individuals would contribute higher amounts than lower-income earners. This includes both worker and employer contribution. And, like many our government's defense, IT, welfare services and transportation services, the program could be managed by private contractors instead of a government office.

Advantages for Small Businesses

Universal healthcare coverage represents a significant advantage for entrepreneurs like mine. It would put us on a level playing field with our larger competitors who can afford better plans. It would make management significantly simpler (automatic payroll withholding remitted like social security and healthcare taxes, instead of separate payments to insurance companies and coverage administrators).

It would make simpler for us to budget our yearly costs, instead of going through the complicated (and fruitless) process of negotiating with major insurers that we must do each year. Due to simplification, there would be a better understanding of coverage among workers – contrasted with the current system where they have to interpret the complications of current options. And there would certainly be reduced responsibility for companies since we wouldn't have access to our employees' health histories for weighing risks and different options.

Free-Market Viewpoint

I'm as pro-market as they get. However I recognize that public institutions play important functions in our lives, from providing defense to funding needed infrastructure. Ensuring medical coverage for everyone via universal healthcare strengthens economic foundations. It represents superior, easier system for small businesses that employ more than half of American employees and fund half of our GDP. It enables for workers to enjoy better health, come to work more often and increase productivity.

Considering Challenges

Are there numerous factors I haven't covered? Certainly. But with rising medical expenses experienced recently, it's clear that current healthcare legislation isn't functioning very well. I understand that we're not a compact European nation where major reforms can be readily adopted. But expanding Medicare for all, even with the additional taxes that would be incurred, would remain a better and more affordable strategy both for controlling healthcare costs and ensuring coverage to everyone.

Time for Honest Assessment

As Americans, must reduce national pride. Our healthcare system isn't so great. The US places significantly behind numerous nations in healthcare quality globally, based on comprehensive research. Perhaps a positive aspect in this current situation is that we take a hard look in the mirror and agree that big changes are necessary.