Ian, next time you write a “fictional” do your homework first and explore the facts instead of judging and assuming!

obviously, you live in a very poor area of Vienna.

and no, the doctor did not see you as “cream”, nor did the pharmacist. for your info: there are laws which obligate employers (federal or private) to insure every singe employee. and even unemployed people have insurance, issued by the state. there is no choice, neither cost for individuals.

the only persons not insured are beggars!! can you now see why a person without insurance card is seen as very unlikely? public doctors are free of charge, as well as treatments in the hospital.

you always can see a private doctor or hospital, of course. that’s where you can show off your money.

I live in Vienna. This story isn't even funny, it is just offensive. Oh yes, pharmacies over here do have cash registers, as all other shops do. Even with a health card, there is always some amount of cash to pay. And we even have electricity and don't live in caves.