News/Commentary

Conservatives in the U.S. have said so many harsh things about the British National Health Service that the “special relationship” the two countries claim may be a little strained at the moment.

The British love the National Health Service, whatever its limitations. Faulting it is much like criticizing the family terrier. Not the done thing.

The excerpt below labels some of the comments made here as “absurd.” Here is what a leading British-owned publication has to say, one which is considered a reliable source of information world-wide, in a commentary article with the headline, “Healthier Than Thou.”

Once America’s health care reform debate here proceeds in a civilized manner—-assuming that great day ever arrives—-we may find that the Brits still invite us to tea, but it could be served with icy stares.

The Economist

“THE NHS is the closest thing the English have to a national religion, Nigel Lawson, a former Tory chancellor, once observed. Seldom has that tart comment seemed more apposite than in recent days, as both Gordon Brown and David Cameron leapt to the defence of the NHS following vitriolic criticism in America of Britain’s “Orwellian” health service. Some of the charges against it are absurd, but does the tax-financed NHS deserve such worship this side of the Atlantic?”

…”Both health systems have their virtues and their faults. At its best, America offers extraordinarily good clinical care, but too many people lack insurance cover or fret about losing it. The NHS provides health care to all at a much lower total cost, but patients have less clout. Both countries are crying out for reforms to bring about better and cheaper care.” (Emphasis added)

Source: The Economist, August 20, 2009