The United States spends the most on healthcare per person, with an estimated $12,555 in 2022.
This high spending is driven by several factors, including:
- High prices for medical services and pharmaceuticals: The U.S. pays significantly more for medical procedures and drugs compared to other developed nations.
- Administrative costs: The U.S. healthcare system is complex, with multiple payers and providers, resulting in higher administrative costs.
- Higher rates of chronic diseases: The prevalence of conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in the U.S. contributes to higher healthcare costs.
- Limited access to affordable healthcare: Many Americans lack health insurance or have limited coverage, leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses and delayed care.
Despite spending more than any other developed country, the U.S. healthcare system struggles to achieve better health outcomes, with lower life expectancy and higher infant mortality rates compared to many other nations.