The notion that UK, AUS, NZ and elsewhere are 'socialist' in not allowing an open market competition in EMS is short sighted. With the exception of Queensland, all EMS helicopters in AUS and NZ are run by independent commercial entities (either not-for-profits or for-profit operators such as Babcock, CHC or Japan post). The government simply uses it's purchasing power to tender for the services across the region in an open market to ensure the best deal, and enforce minimum standards.
NZ did this very well recently in enforcing IFR capable, twin engine aircraft to replace the existing singles operating EMS. This benefits operators in providing long term, well funded stable contacts, patients in high-level consistent services and us pilots in providing job stability and safe, capable aircraft.
I would argue this is the evolution of the free market economy. The government does it jobs but legislating the standard and then uses its purchasing power to get a good deal for all citizens. Same as the government getting a contract for dump (rubbish) trucks vs everyone getting their own garbologist to collect their trash (rubbish).