I have spent at least a couple of years of my life living in Japan—particularly in Tokyo. And, I’ve never been sick there.
 
Well, I pretty never get sick anywhere. The last time I got sick was like thirty-five years ago when I had the flu. I remember my cat never leaving my side on the bed for the whole couple of days I was under the weather, protecting over me.
 
I’ve gotten food poising a few times in the intervening years, but that’s an entirely different subject.
 
Anyway, I was in Tokyo, and I got very sick. That’s really when I consciously took note of this never-sick-there fact.
 
Anyway, I decided I had to go to the doctor. I made an appointment. I grabbed a taxi, and hit on over, expecting, as I am a foreigner, I will be waiting a long time, paying a lot, etc., etc., etc.
 
But, just the opposite happened. I walk in, “Scott?” “Hī.” Within just a couple of minutes I was in seeing the doctor. He asked me about my symptoms. He suggested I do a COVID test. Though I am Max-Vaxed, I was pretty sure I didn’t have that, but I agreed. I waited maybe five or six more minutes for the results in the waiting room. He calls me back in. No COVID. He suggested I have influenzas B. He gives me my script. I go to the desk, expecting a massive bill. It worked out to only be like $65.00 U.S.
 
So… All within like fifteen minutes. I go to the doctor, get tested, and get my prescriptions for $65.00. I was in disbelief. How efficient was that!
 
I mean, I can only imagine if I had gone to an urgent care facility in the States, how long that process would have taken. And, how much that would have cost. I mean, for any of us who live in the States, we know that the price of health insurance is insane. Then, even when you do have it, the health insurance companies don’t want to pay your bill and you have to fight to get them to do it, even though you pay them all this money each month for coverage. It’s really fucked up because as they don’t play the bills, (intentionally), then the doctor’s bill you directly. It is all so wrong!!! It is really a predatory mess!!!
 
But, there I was. Just this, “Hakujin.” Just a guy who walked in and was so well taken care of.
 
They always talk about how the U.S. has the best health care system on the planet. Maybe. But, as far as I can tell, that’s only for the very-very rich or those who get free hand outs. It’s not for the everyday person like you and I.
 
Anyway… This is just a note and reality check about the reality of life. Though some places may not hold the title for the best of the best, but, they are. And, for those who claim the title, for most that is only based on the lie they tell themselves and spread out to the world.
 
The true best of the best is silent.