Task force 5: Access to cardiovascular care: An international comparison

It is apparent that in most countries outside the United States, cardiovascular services are limited to some extent by government, often with the participation and advice of physicians and the public. In many countries, fee-for-service amounts are negotiated between physician associations and paying agencies, whether they are government or sickness funds. In virtually all countries studied, emergencies and urgent cases are determined on a medical basis. Additional centers for either cardiac surgery or catheterization have, in Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, been added on the basis of perceived need (physician and public input). In all countries studied, other than the United States, provision is made to provide cardiovascular services to persons unable to afford them.