The better solution is for the state not to be involved in the
*delivery* of services, but only to provide funding for services for
those unable to pay for themselves.

The problem is that this would be extremely expensive. The NHS, for all its
faults, is exceptionally efficient in terms of care provided for the cost to
the taxpayer.

Countries with private provision end up paying many times the amount in
total and still only cover a much smaller proportion of the population.

OK, you don't get a private room, but who cares? Isn't it more important
that the bypass operation is free?

Christian.