Global systems of health care and trauma

Abstract

Health care policy continues to occupy the center of national debate in the United States. Exploration of international health care and trauma systems allows for better comprehension of our own policies. Four basic models of health care exist across the globe: Bismarck, Beveridge, National Health Insurance, and Out-of-Pocket. Expectantly, disparities in trauma care necessarily follow inequities in overall health care and infrastructure. In this article, we aim to review several countries' health care models and their respective trauma systems. Critical analysis of international solutions to deficiencies in overall health and trauma care may serve as a guide for issues in the United States.