Scott submits:
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In this case, HE chose his surgeon and HE chose
the hospital and he got his wishes.

Only because at that moment, the capacity was available and his heart
condition jumped him up the queue.
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Which is what I've been saying all along: it is medical condition which
determines priority. But please note also: there is no "national"
priority list. In some (most) cases, each doctor will have his/her own
waiting list. If you're holding out for the surgeon with the best
reputation, you can take your chances on his waiting list. You are NOT
obliged to take the first surgeon who comes available. In fact, you are
free to shop around for a surgeon whoes list is shorter (or
nonexistent).

So, once more, Scotty, there is no monolithic, socialist, bureaucracy
which determines when and where your surgery is done. That the best
surgeons have waiting lists ought not to come as a surprise. I'm
willing to bet that you'll also wait to get to be seen by the top
surgeon in Boulder. Surely that's not some socialist conspiracy. That's
the market. No different that in BC.

What's curious, Scott, is that you suggest anecdotal evidence of
success is irrelevant because you, Mr. Weiser in CO, have concluded
that the system doesn't work. Come on up and give us a try.

frtzw906