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How does a single-payer healthcare system handle costs for surgeries, and what's the patient experience like compared to private insurance?

11.06.2025 07:51

How does a single-payer healthcare system handle costs for surgeries, and what's the patient experience like compared to private insurance?

The waiting room at the private clinic was a bit nicer, but I didn’t notice any difference in the care I got. Possibly the wake-up room at the hospital was a bit better, but considering my condition at the time it’s difficult to know for certain.

I also had a hernia operation. That was via a private clinic so they charged an outrageous 375 SEK (about $39). It was a quick one. I get in, go under general anaesthesia, have the surgery, wake up and go home.

I came into the emergency room with an ambulance and they quite quickly figured out the pain I felt came from an infected gallbladder. So off to surgery I went. The cost was 100 SEK a day in hospital (about $10.50). The rest was covered by the general insurance. Now they have increased the cost to 130 SEK.

Why cant I sleep even tho I am sleepy? I am not anxious or worried but my body just doesn't want to. I've been awake for almost 2 days and feel sleepy but I cant sleep. My doctor said its anxiety related but its not. Is this normal?

For Sweden it would depend if it’s emergency surgery or if it’s planned. I’ve had both types.

Different countries have different systems. For Sweden (and probably others as well) it can also be differences between counties.