Think about the populist case for fully socialized medicine. What’s supposed to be so great about it? The certainty. You know that no matter what happens, the government will provide your health care. Of course, this certainty is merely rhetorical. Can you be certain that the government will cover the treatments you actually need? No. Can you be certain that the government will competently deliver whatever treatments it covers? No. Can you even be certain that your medical problems are curable? The answer, I’m afraid, is no. What is the point of this rhetoric of certainty? To confuse voters so they don’t ask the questions that matter to savvy consumers. Namely:
1. What is the marginal health benefit of socialized medicine?
2. How much extra does the government charge for this marginal health benefit?