The documentary film “Sicko” by Michael Moore introduced the health care system in the United States and highlighted its existing problems. In comparison, the relationship between citizens and the state in other countries was also shown. Of the countries represented in the film, France cares the most about its citizens.
In France, the director met with fellow Americans over a meal. Moore expressed confidence that they will tell him the truth about the healthcare system in France. One of his acquaintances told how, while having an illness he was initially even afraid to go to the hospital and report that he might have a chronic illness. Others also support that they initially came to hospitals in a nervous state, and the hospital staff told them to “rest” (Moore, 2007, 1:17:34). The French system differs in that they clarify already existing deviations solely to help a client.
The system also differs in that the time spent on a sick leave is unlimited. In addition, a woman living in France said that she never waited in line for more than an hour. Also, she emphasizes that they can call and representatives of the hospital will arrive at the house for a personal examination within half an hour. “House call doctor” is available and free of charge for the citizens. In addition, the healthcare system treats families with loyalty and care, and children’s medicine is well developed. The state takes care of health, education and maintaining a high standard of living.
A minimum of 5-8 weeks off paid leave is provided to full-time and part-time employees depending on the company they work for and there are 35 working hours per week. At the same time, the productivity of employees is higher compared to the United States. Over time employees receive additional payments or extra days off. When getting married or for other special occasions weekends may also be added to the existing ones.
France also provides dedicated family assistants. Assistants come several times a week and help with household chores so that parents have time for other wants and needs. Moore especially highlights there is nothing similar to this in the United States, “nobody from the government comes to your home in America” (Moore, 2007, 1:22:57). Many Americans living in France feel “very privileged” precisely because of the opportunities provided by the state (Moore, 2007, 1:23:15). They also emphasize that this inequality seems unfair to them. They begin to feel guilty comparing themselves to families and friends who have never had this experience of receiving government service.
At the same time, the Americans highlight that the system in France is conditioned by the fear of the state of the discontent of the people and protests. Moore also says that he began to think that perhaps the American authorities are deliberately broadcasting a negative picture of France in the media (Moore, 2007, 1:27:15). In the USA, the situation is the opposite and citizens are afraid of the actions of the state. People in France are protesting and holding rallies in support of their rights. They demand the state to provide them with conveniences including free medical care, college education and government-employed nannies.
Summing up, all the governmental services are provided at the expense of taxes in France, which are high in comparison with other countries, but at the same time, residents receive more in return. By paying taxes, they reduce or eliminate costs for medicine, education and many other services provided by the state. Thus, of the countries represented in the film, France cares the most about its citizens.
Reference
Moore, M. (2007). Sicko [Film]. Dog Eat Dog Films.