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Out-of-pocket costs. In-network. Non-preferred providers. Concierge medical services. Out-of-pocket expenses. Fixed payment. Co-insurance. Insurance consultants. Insurance brokers. Healthcare consultants. Affordable Care Act. HMO. PPO. EPO. POS. High Deductible Health Plan. Health Savings Account. Flexible Spending Account. Health Reimbursement Arrangement. EOB. COBRA. Small Business Health Options Program. Individual coverage. Family coverage. Premium tax credits.

Confused? It's understandable. Who comprehends this complex system? Not the typical business owner. Neither the average employee. Selecting the right medical coverage for our business – or for households – appears to require it requires a PhD in medical insurance.

The Healthcare System Isn't Just Complicated, It Is Expensive

Based on recent research, the average family spends $27,000 each year for their health insurance (up 6% compared to last year). The average employer health insurance cost is expected to surpass $17,000 for each worker in 2026, a 9.5% jump compared to 2025.

Now the government is shut down because political disagreements over tax credits that experts say will lead to premium increases up to 100% for numerous US citizens.

When Will We Seriously Consider National Health Insurance?

How soon might we seriously consider universal healthcare coverage here in America? I'm convinced we're getting closer because this can't continue.

I'm not proposing government-run medicine. I'm advocating for our current Medicare program – an established insurance framework – merely extend to cover everyone. Our infrastructure remains intact. The way medical professionals receive payment would change. Trust me, they'll adapt.

The Way Universal Coverage Could Function

Universal healthcare coverage would need contributions from employees and employers. In comparable systems, a worker earning moderate income pays about five point three percent to their healthcare. Their employer pays approximately 13.75%.

Does this appear like a lot? Unless you contrast that with what the typical American pays. I know multiple clients that are easily contributing anywhere from eight to fifteen percent of payroll costs for medical benefits. And keep in mind that with comprehensive systems, those payments also cover pension plans, illness coverage, maternity leave and job loss protection along with supporting healthcare facilities. When including those costs compared with our current spending on retirement programs, unemployment insurance and paid time off, the gap narrows.

Execution in the US

For America, a national health premium would increase our Medicare tax deduction, a framework that is already in place. It should be income-adjusted – those at higher income levels would contribute higher amounts than lower-income earners. This includes both an employee and company payments. Similar to much of federal military, technology, social programs and infrastructure, the system should be outsourced by private contractors instead of federal agencies.

Benefits for Small Businesses

Universal healthcare coverage would be a significant advantage for entrepreneurs like mine. It would put small companies in equal competition with our larger competitors who can afford superior coverage. It would render management significantly simpler (automatic payroll withholding processed similarly to retirement and Medicare taxes, rather than separate payments to benefit firms and coverage administrators).

It would make it easier for us to budget our yearly costs, rather than going through the complicated (and fruitless) theater of negotiating with the big insurance providers required annually each year. Because it's simplified, there would exist a better understanding of coverage among workers – as opposed to the current system where they have to decipher the complications of existing plans. Additionally there would certainly be reduced responsibility for employers as we no longer would be privy to workers' health histories for purposes of risk assessment and alternative plans.

Free-Market Viewpoint

I'm as capitalist as possible. However I recognize that public institutions play important functions in society, from providing defense to funding essential systems. Providing healthcare for everyone via universal healthcare enhances economic foundations. It represents superior, simpler approach for small businesses that employ the majority of American employees and generate half of our GDP. It makes it possible employees to be healthier, come to work more often and be more productive.

Addressing Concerns

Exist a million considerations I'm not addressing? Of course there are. But with rising medical expenses experienced recently, it's evident that current healthcare legislation is not working effectively. And I realize that America isn't a compact European nation where major reforms are easier to implement. However extending Medicare for all, even with increased taxation required, would still be a better and less expensive strategy both for managing medical expenses and ensuring coverage to everyone.

Time for Honest Assessment

As Americans, we need to reduce our own arrogance. Our healthcare system isn't so great. We rank significantly behind many other countries in healthcare quality globally, according to major studies. Perhaps a positive aspect amid present circumstances is that we undertake a hard look in the mirror and agree that major reforms need to happen.