The only complete Viking Age wagon. Found in a burial mound in Oseberg near the Oslo Fjord in Norway, 9th century AD.

| Archeaology
October 31, 2024

One of the most interesting Viking excavation should be the Oseberg burial mound. Because it is a Viking ship burial, a very luxurious Viking ship burial indeed. Moreover, it was dedicated to two Viking women: one died around her 70s and the other around her 40s. Besides the large and well-preserved ship, the burial mound included many unique artifacts.

One of the most mysterious Oseberg artifacts also includes the Oseberg cart with subtle decoration. But what is the purpose of the Oseberg cart?

The Oseberg cart, according to the archaeologists, came into shape many years before the Oseberg ship. Archaeologists found exactly the same carts in parts of Denmark and Germany. And they were found in the luxurious graves of the wealthy women.

The Oseberg cart was as long as 5.5 meters (18ft) including the shafts. It was about 1.5 meters (5ft) in width and 1.2 meters (4ft) in height.

Like the Oseberg ship, the Oseberg cart had many subtle decorations on it. It depicts animals, symbols, humans, and especially cats. One common interpretation of this is that it attempted to depict Frey’s cats that pulled Freya’s wagon and other parts of the ceremony.

One of the subtle decorations of the Oseberg cart in the back: cats, symbols, human, and animals

The carving from the front showed a man fighting with snakes and a beast was biting his foot. Seemingly, it depicts the myth of Gunnar in the snake pit.

The scene in the middle of the right side might depict the legendary tale of Freyr god of fertility and Gerd giantess of coldness.

Oseberg cart a man was included for scale 

This cart was carefully made with many types of materials. The shafts came from the ash. The upper board was made of oak tree. The archaeologists guessed that the cart was pulled by two horses.

For each part of the wagon could be dismantled so the Vikings were able to transport on the ship. When the ship was inshore, the servants would release the wagon and it could transport either the woman or the objects from the ship toward the land without much labour.

Review: Top 10 Healthcare Services in the USA

The U.S. healthcare industry is a complex ecosystem of providers, insurers, and technology-driven services, delivering critical care to millions. In 2025, the sector is shaped by rising costs (projected at $4.9 trillion in 2023), technological innovation, and a focus on patient-centric care. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 healthcare services in the USA, based on market presence, patient outcomes, and industry impact.

1. HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest health system, operating 220 hospitals and over 40,000 staffed beds across 20 states. Known for comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty treatments, it generates significant net patient revenue. Its scale and advanced technology adoption ensure high-quality care, though accessibility varies by region.

2. Universal Health Services (UHS)

UHS manages 183 hospitals across 40 states, with over 21,000 beds, focusing on acute care and behavioral health. Its facilities in Texas, Florida, and California provide diverse services, from trauma care to psychiatric treatment. UHS’s emphasis on mental health integration aligns with 2025 trends, though high costs can be a barrier.

3. Encompass Health Corporation

With 164 hospitals, Encompass is the largest operator of rehabilitation hospitals, offering specialized post-acute care for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury patients. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, it operates in 37 states, delivering measurable outcomes through therapy-focused programs. Its niche focus limits broader service scope.

4. CommonSpirit Health

A Catholic-affiliated system with 142 hospitals, CommonSpirit provides acute care, outpatient services, and telehealth across 21 states. It excels in community health programs and equitable access, serving underserved populations. Its integration of AI for diagnostics enhances efficiency, but merger-related challenges can affect consistency.

5. Ascension Health

Ascension operates 139 hospitals, focusing on primary care, oncology, and cardiology. With a mission-driven approach, it serves low-income communities through charity care programs. Its adoption of value-based care (VBC) models, projected to cover 90 million lives by 2027, improves outcomes but faces staffing shortages.

6. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a leading integrated healthcare provider, combining insurance and care delivery for 12.5 million members. Its ACA marketplace plans are top-rated for affordability and quality, with low deductibles and strong preventive care. Operating in eight states, its HMO model ensures coordinated care but limits patient choice.

7. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna, under CVS Health, provides health insurance and healthcare services, covering 39 million lives. Its ACA plans offer competitive premiums and broad networks, with telehealth and pharmacy integration via CVS. Aetna’s focus on chronic disease management and AI-driven care navigation boosts outcomes, though rural access is limited.

8. Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is renowned for specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. With 70,000 staff and three major campuses, it serves 1.3 million patients annually. Its research-driven approach and high patient satisfaction earn it top rankings, but costs and geographic reach are drawbacks.

9. Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic, with 23 hospitals, is a leader in cardiac care and medical innovation, serving patients across Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. Its adoption of cloud computing and AI for diagnostics enhances precision medicine. High costs and limited national presence restrict accessibility for some.

10. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS, a federation of 34 independent companies, insures 115 million Americans, offering PPO, HMO, and EPO plans. Its ACA marketplace plans are widely available, with strong provider networks and wellness programs. BCBS’s focus on digital health tools and equitable access is notable, though premiums vary by state.

Choosing the Right Service

Selecting a healthcare service depends on location, medical needs, and budget. HCA and UHS offer broad hospital-based care, while Kaiser and Aetna excel in integrated insurance and delivery. Mayo and Cleveland Clinic are ideal for specialized treatments, and BCBS provides flexible insurance options. Compare costs (e.g., average ACA premium: $635/month), provider networks, and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or U.S. News. With 26 million uninsured Americans and rising costs, prioritize services with telehealth, preventive care, and VBC to maximize value.

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