Coleman Geiger, an American traveller currently exploring Australia, recently shared his astonishment and appreciation for the country’s healthcare system in a viral video. His experience stood in sharp contrast to the often high-cost, insurance-dependent medical system in the United States.
During his time in Australia, Geiger had the opportunity to access a telehealth appointment and secure two months’ worth of antibiotics—all for just $48. This relatively low cost left him astounded, especially considering the expensive and complicated healthcare system in the U.S., where access to medical services is often tied to expensive insurance plans, high deductibles, and long waits.
Geiger, in his video, praised the Australian healthcare system, calling the country “great” for this very reason: “The American gang will know you don’t go to the doctor unless you really have to — especially if you don’t have insurance,” he explained, commenting on the hesitancy many Americans have to seek medical help due to the high costs involved. For most Americans without insurance or with high deductibles, visiting a doctor can be financially crippling, often leading people to avoid medical care until absolutely necessary.
Geiger’s experience—securing an appointment in under 30 minutes and receiving affordable treatment—stood in stark contrast to the realities he’s faced growing up in the U.S. His family always had health insurance, but Geiger recalled that they rarely used it due to the exorbitant cost of healthcare services. “We never went to the doctor unless we met the deductible,” he said. This meant that even basic medical needs, such as a suspected injury, would often go untreated for months if the treatment was considered too costly.
Geiger recalled a particularly painful memory from his childhood when he had a suspected broken hand but had to endure the pain for an entire month. The reason? His family could not afford to visit the doctor unless it was absolutely necessary. “I had to suck it up,” he said, emphasizing the financial struggle that many Americans face when deciding whether to seek medical treatment.
This personal story resonates with millions of Americans who have had to make similar decisions, whether it’s putting off a visit to the doctor or forgoing needed medical care altogether. For Geiger, this kind of experience is all too familiar, and it’s one of the many reasons why the U.S. healthcare system is often viewed as inaccessible and unaffordable, particularly for those without robust insurance plans.
In contrast, Geiger’s visit to Australia highlighted the stark differences in the two healthcare systems. The ease with which he secured a telehealth appointment and received the medication he needed for a fraction of the cost was a revelation. “It was such a pleasant surprise,” he said, referring to how quickly he received care, something that would likely take a much longer time in the U.S. due to insurance red tape or high upfront costs.
Australia’s healthcare system, often praised for its efficiency and affordability, offers a more accessible option for those who need medical care. For Australian residents, the system includes Medicare, a public health insurance program that covers a wide range of medical services. Even visitors like Geiger benefit from a simplified system where essential healthcare services are affordable without the need for private insurance, which is often an expensive necessity in the U.S. Geiger’s experience is a testament to how, in Australia, the barriers to receiving medical care are far lower than those in the U.S.
Geiger’s experience has drawn attention to the ongoing struggles that Americans face in their own healthcare system. For many U.S. citizens, the cost of health insurance and the frequent inability to afford out-of-pocket medical expenses has led to a healthcare system that fails to meet the needs of a significant portion of the population. According to recent reports, nearly 27 million Americans remain uninsured, leaving them vulnerable to crippling medical bills in the event of illness or injury.
The rising cost of healthcare, insurance premiums, and medication is one of the biggest issues in the U.S. today. While many Americans enjoy high-quality medical care when they can afford it, those without sufficient coverage are often left to suffer or go without care, as seen in Geiger’s own childhood memories. Furthermore, high deductibles and co-pays have made it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to access even basic care without incurring substantial financial burdens.
Geiger’s positive experience in Australia has shone a light on the need for reform in the U.S., particularly for individuals and families who are unable to access affordable care due to financial constraints. The contrast between the two countries underscores the importance of exploring healthcare systems that prioritize access, affordability, and efficiency, and offers a glimpse of what could be possible in the U.S. if similar reforms were implemented.
Since Geiger’s video went viral, the discussion surrounding the differences between U.S. and Australian healthcare systems has gained significant traction. Many people have shared their own experiences in the comments, with some noting that they too have avoided medical treatment due to the high costs in the U.S. Others have praised Australia’s system, while some have expressed hope for future reforms in the U.S. to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for everyone.
While Geiger’s experience is just one example, it is indicative of a larger trend, as people begin to recognize the shortcomings of their home country’s healthcare system. As the conversation continues to evolve, it may inspire more Americans to advocate for changes that could make healthcare more accessible to all.
