Why do so many Americans like the idea of tying health insurance to employment?

I find it shocking that there are still several out there who think that this is a good, sound economic policy for a capitalist nation that prides itself on its entrepreneurial spirit. First of all, it was introduced in the 1940s when the Federal Government imposed wage controls and employers, seeking a better cl of workers, included subsidized health insurance as an incentive. Now, fast forward six decades later, and we still have this system, which limits an individual's ability to work for himself, work two part-time jobs, pursue a path that he may really be qualified for, and burdens employers. So, why do so many, particularly conservatives, like this system and want to keep it? Capitalist, rich Australia, Switzerland and Japan figured out the problems with this a long time ago, why can't we? Employers aren't responsible for funding your car insurance, renter's insurance, pet insurance, mortgage insurance, etc., why do we hang on to this enterprise-limiting system?