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> And many people go, knowing they can’t pay, because they’ll just never pay the bill and will dodge the bill collectors.

Most providers (outside of ERs and the mandate for emergency stabilization therein, and some free clinics operated as charities) won't provide treatment without proof of insurance and any required co-payment upfront, or, for private pay clients upfront payment or fairly strong proof that payment will be collectible.

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I think that's what he's saying - they go to the ER.

Yesh, but ERs are limited in services provided. The mandate they face with regard to service independent of payment is stabilization, not full-scope general medical service.

Going to the ER is a very common thing for many people. Even for cold and flu. So yes, they aren't getting general exams or long term care. They are getting immediate symptom based care in the most expensive way possible. This goes back to the issue mentioned above. People wait too long, go to the ER when it hurts but, it's too late.

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