Numerous studies have shown that patients often avoid or delay seeking medical care for fear of out-of-pocket costs they cannot afford. This practice frequently leads to even greater costs down the road, as untreated and preventable conditions become more complicated.

Under a single payer system, patients would see improved health because they would not have any financial barriers to obtaining appropriate care, including preventive services.

Another feature of a single payer system is freedom of choice. Patients could choose their own doctor, and their coverage would be portable, so that if they changed jobs, moved to a different location in Vermont, or had a change in marital status, the availability of health care would remain constant.