You pay significantly less in a single payer regulated system, because everyone pays into it. Often, you pay less for better care. Other than your anecdote, which I could counter with my own that a government run healthcare system is why I can call my dad right now and say 'hi', do you have any real information to back up the government health care system is killing you?
You pay for both systems. One kills you because you can't afford it and the other kills you because they can't afford to keep you alive.