Holland has one of the world’s great socialist systems where the government attempts to see to all the needs of it’s inhabitants regardless of cost. It’s extremely idealistic and the economic reality of such a system means that the Dutch also have one of the highest tax rates in the world. This funds an excellent medical system, one of the most efficient and diverse transit systems, complete welfare and subsidy system for those people in need.

The Dutch government cares for it’s citizens from cradle to grave and they have it good compared to America. However the enormous cost of this system has caused the government to begin cutbacks. In the last few years new laws have begun to penalize those who don’t work. Still, the Dutch can look forward to the standard six week paid vacation, lots of paid sick days and holidays to boot. Work always takes a back seat to the more important things of life. Something Americans have never figured out.

The Dutch have a great attitude towards those who are ill. Doctors treat the person, taking as much time as necessary to root out the problem. They are willing to try new treatments (many that haven’t been approved in America). And even for emergency treatment, the patient always comes first. That means that paying the bill is not the first thing on everyone’s mind. My friend needed emergency and ongoing treatment from a physician and was thrilled to be treated like a human being. He was surprised his offer for cash payment at the emergency room was turned down with “we’ll send you a bill”. Typically that bill and others from his doctor take about six months to arrive, and are usually very reasonable (about $40 for the emergency room visit including treatment). It makes you wonder where we went wrong with our medical system. Update: After a recent doctor’s strike, prices for medical care have risen quite a bit in a short period. But it’s still a bargain.