Abstract:

The delivery and coverage of healthcare varies drastically country to country. The United States (U.S.) and Taiwan present a case of contrasting healthcare systems from the roots up as one relies on a single-payer system and the other utilizes a multi-payer system. Along with other differences including health status, cost of care, and utilization of care, there are also notable similarities among the two systems. This paper will analyze the similarities and major differences between the two systems. A literature review was conducted to identify the major characteristics of the two systems and report health statuses for the two countries to compare the level of care provided under varying delivery models. Both qualitative and quantitative data was used to draw conclusions regarding the similarities and difference between the U.S. multi-payer system and the Taiwan single payer national health insurance system. It was concluded that while there are few similarities, especially when comparing the U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs to the Taiwan National Health Insurance system, there are mainly differences present between the two systems.

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