You're right (for a change) nothing is free and we don't expect it to be. Socialised healthcare has to be paid for by all, but then everyone gets to benefit. Most europeans are happy to contribute to a system that they will all get to use. Its just a simple mindset issue really, but you yanks are still hung up about anything with the 'socialist' tag on it. Besides, why would you want a compassionate society that looks after its own, there's no money to be made from it!!!