I've spent some time reading DrRich's blog, "Covert Rationing" and have received some enlightenment on our own medical system in this country. He is of the opinion that rationing has been occurring here as well, and has been for decades; the one difference between the US and the other countries is the rationing there is done openly and here it is covert.
I'll have to check that blog out.
Without having read his blog I'd have to say that I agree that there's been rationing here-- and I think it often comes in the form of attitude.
We don't have a culture of life in this country.
Sooooooo if you don't fit the protocol you're out of luck depending on the doctor you have. And the hospital you in.