[Lindsey]

Oh my gosh my jaw hit the floor when I read through this thread! I knew that insurance in the states was expensive, and actually is one of my biggest concerns about moving there. I didn't know it was THAT expensive though! Here, medical is free. Doctors are paid by the government. No matter who you are or how much money you make, as long as you have a government issued health card (which every resident gets) then you can see a doctor free of charge, and if you are referred to a specialist, it is also free of charge. My health plan through work covers 80% of prescriptions, 80% of eye care I believe, and 100% of dental. I just figured out what I pay yearly and it's $873.12.