How Singapore Sells Co-Payment

Reminds me of the "cafeteria Catholic" metaphor.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7884113202622628827&hl=en

@ 2:35 in I explain moral hazard (and adverse selection), using the example of an all-you-can-eat buffet.

I'm pretty sure I got the idea from Bryan, though.

As distinct from Buffet?

Many years ago I was with a university continuing education program that offered free admission to graduate students. The no-show rate for these "free registrations" was almost 100%. So I implemented a $5 charge, and the student registration rate dropped by about 75% but almost all graduate students who paid $5 for registration (rather than the regular $195 rate) showed up.

Requiring a token fee is a good way to cut down on "free things."

"But perhaps Singapore has been more successful in selling the idea because it's got better marketing."

Right, and I'm completely sure that the fact that it is functionally a one party system and a restrictive semi - democracy has nothing at all to do with that.

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