In today's health care environment, the choice between public and private health care is a decision that often faces every patient. Although the private sector may offer certain advantages in terms of convenience and speed, the public health system continues to present strong arguments for its choice, and not just the obvious financial ones.

In what follows, we look at the reasons why the public health system remains a viable and well-founded option for most citizens:

1. Capacity to manage complex and severe conditions

The public health system has the resources to deal with complex medical cases and serious conditions, thanks to its extensive infrastructure and access to highly qualified medical staff. In public hospitals, patients can benefit from advanced treatments and major surgery, which are essential in the management of critical illness. This ability to treat complex conditions often makes the public system the first choice for patients requiring long-term specialized care.

2. Professional expertise and quality of medical training

Public health facilities are centers of excellence in the training and professional development of health professionals. These institutions are often involved in medical research and continuing education, which ensures that medical staff are always up to date with the latest innovations and clinical practices. This ensures that patients in the public system receive care from well-trained professionals with extensive experience in managing complex medical cases.

3. Comprehensive integration with other public services

A distinct advantage of the public health system is its integration with other key public services such as social care, education and child protection. This inter-institutional collaboration allows faster and more coordinated access to a wide range of services for vulnerable patients or those requiring multidisciplinary care. Also, in crisis situations, such as pandemics, the public system has the capacity to mobilize significant resources and respond effectively to the needs of the population.

4. Continuity and sustainability of health care

The public health care system provides a continuity and sustainability of health care that is less vulnerable to economic fluctuations or the financial priorities of a private entity. Being publicly funded, this system ensures constant access to essential care, even in times of economic crisis or political change. This stability is crucial for patients who require continuous medical care or who face long-term conditions.

5. National coverage and geographical accessibility

The public health system has an extensive geographical coverage, ensuring the presence of health facilities in all regions of the country, including rural or less developed areas. This extensive network of health institutions ensures that patients in all corners of the country have access to quality health care, regardless of their geographical location. For many communities, this access is the only viable option for getting the care they need.

6. Impartial and non-discriminatory treatment

A fundamental principle of the public health system is to ensure equal access to health care for all citizens, without discrimination based on social status, race, sex or other criteria - at least in theory. This commitment to impartial treatment is essential to protect patients' fundamental rights and to ensure a fair standard of care for all. This non-discriminatory approach is particularly important in the context of modern society, where diversity and inclusion are essential values.

7. Involvement in medical research and public health programs

The public health system plays a central role in medical research and the implementation of public health programs. These activities contribute to the improvement of the general health of the population and the prevention of major diseases such as infectious or chronic diseases. Through these programs, patients in the public system benefit from access to the latest medical advances and care that is in line with international best practice.