The problem with Sanders plan is that it assumes GIGANTIC cost savings simply from taking private insurers out of the picture. And sure, there's some "wasted money" there, from things like advertising and profits and executive salaries. But it's hardly a huge cost driver in our system. If you want prices like you've got in Europe, then you need HUGE cuts in payments to hospitals and doctors. You don't need Medicare for all, you need Medicaid for all. And that means bankrupting tons of rural hospitals, tons of doctors quitting because their salaries are going to be decimated, and it means a significantly lower standard of care than a lot of middle-class and upper-middle class people are used to.
Alternatively, you can not go after these massive cost savings, but then you'll either need much higher taxes than Bernie is calling for OR gigantic deficits.
Whether or not it was his intention, this was one of the most insightful, helpful posts about SINGLE PAYER on the forum. Definitely a great post.
