Health care around the globe

— -- A look at how other developed countries provide and pay for health care compared with the U.S. system, based on the most recent information available:

United States

The U.S. health care system operates through a combination of public and private insurers. Two of the largest government-run insurance programs are Medicaid and Medicare, which are funded by income taxes and available to low-income citizens and the elderly. Those not in government-run programs must find coverage through the private market, from their employer or go uninsured. Care is largely provided by private doctors at private facilities.

Germany

Germany requires people making less than about $70,000 a year to have health insurance, which is operated by more than 200 competing, non-profit insurance companies. Those making more than $70,000 a year have the option to be under the mandatory health care, or they can buy private insurance or go uninsured. The system is funded through an income tax. Care is provided by private doctors and a mix of private and public hospitals.

Sweden

Sweden provides universal health care coverage. The program is funded through central and local taxes and co-payments on services. The national government regulates the system, but the local governments organize the care facilities. Doctors can be government employees or private practitioners because the local governments can decide what system is best for their community. In most cases, hospitals are owned and operated by the local government.

Canada

Canada provides universal health care; however, many Canadians purchase insurance to supplement the government program. The program is funded through general taxation, and any supplemental insurance is paid out-of-pocket. The majority of doctors are not employed by the government. Hospitals can be either public or private, but their budgets are negotiated with the government.

Italy

Italy offers health care to all residents. Funding for the health care system comes from a mix of income taxes, local taxes and co-payments. Care is delivered through private doctors. Most hospitals are government-run. There are some private and for-profit hospitals.