CTL, that odes not mean that it is wise. It does not even mean that it is constitutional. Once a NYS legislator was asked why he pushed a blatantly unconstitutional measure (it had to do with supporting religious schools). He answered that sometimes he has to do things like that to get votes.
Charlie,
1. Israel does not have a federal system. Moreover, it is approximately the size of NJ in both area and population. Insurance pools have always been state responsibilities. This would also be much more efficient.
2. Israel’s system is mostly private. There is a basic plan that is funded through income-based premiums and distributed to HMOs on the basis of membership. The HMOs also offere voluntary supplementary plans forage-based premiums. Insurance companies also offer supplementary individual and group plans.