socialized healthcare

so thanks to jeff's recent and ongoing bout with food poisioning, we had our first experience with sweden's socialized healthcare system. there is a local doctor's clinic about 5 blocks from our apartment. he's been sick since last monday, so he decided that our home remedies weren't working, and off we went. we walked in, grabbed a number, and expected to settle in for a long wait. after all, it's socialized medicine right? we've been taught to believe in the U.S. that it means long lines and substandard care. not so! within 5 minutes of arrival we were sitting with a triage nurse, and sent to sit in the waiting room. within 5 more minutes, we were in the exam room. the doc then sent him for some tests, just down the hall. again, about a 5 minute wait and they called him back for his labs. 5 more minutes and we were right back in the exam room. the entire visit took approx. 45 minutes, and cost 200 crown (approx $25). NO ADDITIONAL BILLS! we were never even asked for an insurance card, just for his personallnumber (the equivalent of our social security number.. and you're "official" swedish ID). the clinic is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is a walk-in clinic. no matter your illness, time of day, or required tests, the charge is only 200 crown. overall, it was a very pleasant (and inexpensive) experience.