Which one of the following is NOT a unique characteristic of the U.S. healthcare system?

Universal coverage is not a unique characteristic of the U.S. healthcare system, as it does not provide universal access to health care for all citizens. Unlike many other countries that have implemented systems ensuring healthcare coverage for all residents, the U.S. has a patchwork approach that includes private insurance, employer-sponsored plans, and government programs like Medicare and Medicaid, which do not cover every individual. As a result, there remain significant gaps in access and coverage.

In contrast, the characteristics of a lack of a central agency, a balancing of power among various stakeholders such as providers, insurers, and government entities, and significant litigation risks associated with healthcare practice and malpractice are hallmarks of the U.S. system. These features contribute to its complexity compared to more centralized systems found in other countries.