How does the healthcare system in Canada work and what are the key issues facing it?

Canada has a publicly funded, universally accessible healthcare system, known as Medicare. Under this system, all legal residents of Canada have access to medically necessary hospital and physician services without paying out of pocket. The government funds the majority of healthcare services through general taxes, while provinces and territories manage the delivery and administration of healthcare.

However, despite its reputation as a model of universal healthcare, the Canadian system is facing several challenges. Some of the key issues include long wait times for certain medical procedures, a shortage of healthcare providers in some areas, and difficulties accessing care in rural or remote communities. Additionally, healthcare costs have been rising faster than inflation, putting pressure on government budgets.

Efforts are being made to address these issues, such as increasing funding for healthcare, improving the coordination of care, and expanding access to virtual healthcare services. However, the healthcare system in Canada remains a complex and evolving issue, with ongoing debates about how to ensure access to high-quality care for all Canadians.