I don't think the average income family in fairly well off areas can afford medcines for all eventualities. I know of many examples of people who don't have the medicne they need and go with out unless the cash is there.
I know i couldn't afford all the medcines my family and I would need in the UK with out the NHS or private insurance.
Andypaul,
Medicine for minor ailments are not that expensive here, especially if use the generic one. Even the medicine for example for heart disease , hight blood and diabetes still affordable.