Health care is done by the Provinces in Canada, with transfers from the Federal Government to help out. The most recent Alberta budget[0] puts the cost of health care at about $20B. This represents approximately 40% of Alberta government spending.
Is that due to waste or inefficiencies? I honestly have no idea. I just know that it's a big number.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, at least in Canada, the government provides some base amount of health services, but there are still other things that aren't covered. In Alberta, someone might go to the ER for a severe asthma attack and that's covered, but the prescriptions to keep the asthma under control are paid for out of pocket or from a benefit plan (which could be an individual plan or through an employer). Similarly, dental is not covered, but may be covered under a benefit plan.
[0] http://finance.alberta.ca/publications/budget/budget2016/fis...
2. There are always going to be a few inefficiencies in health care, just like every other business. Some of these can't be helped as much. We want well-stocked emergency rooms and pharmacies to visit after the 2am visit said emergency rooms, for example. Drugs expire: Pharmacies take manpower even in slow times.
3. The other thing with health care is that it does somewhat cost what it costs. There are ways to reduce some of the costs by public education, generic drugs, not providing antibiotics when they aren't needed, and other such things. But folks get sick and hurt regardless.
Side note: The bit about the prescriptions is interesting. I'm in Norway. Private health care is available, but everyone is covered by the state health care. You pay a certain amount per year, then the government covers most things. Prescription coverage vary once the government starts paying. Things you need for life - such as heart medicines - will wind up covered, but some things like allergy meds you might have to pay a portion of the cost regardless. Most hospital expenses are free.
Dental is free for children under 18: 18 and 19 year olds get 75% covered and adults have to pay out of pocket.