It’s no surprise that many North Americans identify healthcare as a national priority. However, the United States, Canada, and Mexico each operate under different healthcare systems and healthcare funding.

Despite the United States’ superpower status, it remains the only developed nation lacking a universal health care system. The United States is publicly funded through two main federal systems: Medicare, which covers seniors and individuals with disabilities; and Medicaid, which is available to low-income individuals. The State Children's Health Insurance Program also covers children from low-income families. United States Military veterans are eligible to receive care from The Veterans Health Administration through various government hospitals, while active U.S. Military personnel and retired service members are eligible for coverage under TRICARE.

A significant number of Americans cannot afford individual healthcare insurance or are unable to obtain it through their employer. However, in recent years, states such as Minnesota and Massachusetts have made strides toward emulating a universal healthcare system.

Canada’s healthcare system is centered around a Medicare model which is publicly-funded and federally sponsored. Basic services, such as doctors visits, x-rays, and blood work are covered by the government; while other services, such as dental and optometrist appointments are not. Although many healthcare services deemed essential are covered by the government, long waiting times for procedures and appointments are a concern for many Canadians, and vary from province to province. Prescription coverage also varies on a provincial basis, with some provinces offering coverage for low-income individuals.

Mexico’s healthcare system is made up of three main components: social security, government services for the uninsured, and out-of-pocket-paid services from the private sector. Mexico has both private and public hospitals; however its private hospitals are significantly smaller and less accommodating. It has been estimated that half of Mexico’s citizens do not have insurance, and the majority of Mexicans pay out-of-pocket for healthcare costs. Geographical barriers also limit access to quality healthcare for many Mexican citizens who live in rural areas, where hospitals are limited or non-existent.

Despite the barriers posed by geography and class, healthcare services and prescription drugs in Mexico are considered more affordable than those in the United States and Canada. Because of this, many North Americans travel to Mexico for procedures such as minor surgeries or dental work. In addition, many doctors in Mexico make house calls, a service that has all but disappeared in the United States and Canada in recent decades.