The United Kingdom and United States Health Care Systems: a Comparison

Abstract

Health care services and systems are fundamental to any society, and health status is directly proportional to standard of living. This article analyzes and compares two of the major health care systems of the world, the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom and the health care system of the United States; it also references community care nursing. Both health care systems were founded on high ideals and have been able to deliver results to a large extent. However, there will always be areas for improvements. These areas are enumerated and analyzed in this article. This analysis can provide some guidance to the best possible health care delivery model. It has been said that the United States has structured health care as a commodity, whereas the United Kingdom has considered it a part of the welfare state. Neither model, however, has fully accomplished the goal of meeting quality, equitable access, and cost effectiveness.