How does Canada's healthcare system differ from the US healthcare system in terms of politics and policy?

The healthcare systems in Canada and the United States differ significantly in terms of politics and policy. Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, while the United States has a predominantly privately funded healthcare system. In Canada, healthcare is considered a fundamental right, and access to healthcare is based on need rather than the ability to pay. In contrast, in the United States, access to healthcare is largely dependent on one's ability to pay.

Canada's healthcare system is publicly funded through taxes, and it covers all necessary medical services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and prescription drugs. The Canadian government negotiates drug prices, which helps to keep costs down. In the United States, the healthcare system is predominantly privately funded, with individuals purchasing health insurance or receiving it through their employers. The cost of healthcare in the United States is significantly higher than in Canada, and many people do not have health insurance or are underinsured.

Politically, healthcare is a highly debated issue in both countries, but for different reasons. In Canada, there are debates about wait times and resource allocation, while in the United States, debates often focus on the role of government in healthcare and the cost of healthcare. The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, was a significant healthcare policy reform in the United States that aimed to increase access to healthcare for all Americans. However, it remains a controversial issue in American politics.