With the emergence of a global economy, it is imperative that faculty have an increased understanding of variables or factors affecting the welfare and health care systems of different countries. In addition, they must become knowledgeable about how the European Union plays a part in the evolution of these systems and be aware of the business implications of them. This paper discusses and highlights how two countries, Sweden and Denmark, are dealing with these challenges. Based on two professors' travel experiences, personal reflections are shared and contrasted with similar issues in the United States. The paper should be applicable for both business and health care professionals in academia. (Contains 2 tables.)