What would you suggest working people earning low wages do for health insurance?

The medical systems that are government funded are awful! Why do you think everyone that can afford it comes here? Even Canadians cone here. I've never had health insurance and I don't need it. I was a single father of two girls and their doctor visits range from $75 to $150. That's cheaper that insurance! They charge me less because I pay cash. Even if you don't have a single penny to your name you still get medical care....the best in the world! Why do people whine about no insurance when you still get seen no matter what?

Go to the free health clinic Go to any and all one free health services offered Many hospitals have grant or indigent services programs for those who are unable to pay or those who can pay something at a drastically reduced rate. You have to ask about them programs as they are not going to volunteer the information. There are ways of getting needed care but you have to be pro-active

European countries pay for their health care with high payroll taxes. If corporation had to pay an additional 20% tax on your income, where do you think that money would come from? It would come from your salary. So, instead of making $30,000, you'd be making $25,000 so that the company could afford the 20% tax. When you look at it that way, you're probably better off paying for you own health insurance.

Check to see if your state offers a cut rate insurance or get a second job.

People dont come to the U.S. for routine care. They come with cash for surgery that they would have to wait a few months for back home for free. I think we Americans would wait a few months for elective surgery or a costly imagine like MRI or PET SCAN if we didnt have to pay not to mention the stress and worry of not paying the bill, getting a collection agency calling, filing bankruptcy. The other answers suggest charity clinics and there are those, and community clinics and out patient clinics. They charge a fee based on your income. They are fine up to a point but many dont do imaging and certainly not surgery or advanced treatments. They do routine care. Most of them are set up to take Medicaid. The low income clinics rarely take new patients these days. They decide based on how needy you actually are. If you work full time you would not be given a low price. Sure most people can pay $50 to see a doctor at a clinic but not to pay for any treatments. If you can get generic medication you can squeak by. European countries have both private insurance and national health plans. During the 2009 debate, but insurance companies and business objected to a "public option" which would mean competition for insurance dollars. According to Aaron, he does not need medical treatment beyond the initial consultation.