How much does the United States spend on health care?

In 2006, the United States devoted 15.3% of its GDP to health-care spending (i.e., health goods and services plus health-care infrastructure). Seven other countries devoted >10% of their GDP to health-care spending: Switzerland, France, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Austria, and Canada. Five countries devoted <7%>

One of the questions we should consider: are Americans healthier because more spending is devoted to health care? I would argue not. Citizens of industrialized countries are facing health problems related to obesity and chronic diseases.

Health care costs can be reduced when there is more investment in preventative care, education, and endorsement of healthy habits.

Resource: CDC