Ontario woman slams universal health care in TV ads

An Ontario woman who sought treatment for a growth in her brain in the United States is now the poster girl for a campaign to prevent universal health care south of the border, telling Americans in television ads that she would have died if she had waited to be treated in Canada.

Shona Holmes, of Waterdown, Ont., was treated for a growth near her pituitary gland at the famed Mayo Clinic after doctors in Canada told her she would have to wait several months for a referral to a specialist.

She re-mortgaged her home and paid about $100,000 for treatment.

She is now a spokesperson for the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest's BigGovHealth campaign, which warns Americans that, "Increased government control and bureaucracy over our health care will come at great risk to American patients, consumers and health care workers."

The controversial television ad is sponsored by Patients United Now, a citizens' group that opposes government-run health care.

In the ad, which is running in all 50 states, Holmes tells viewers that she "survived a brain tumour, but if I'd relied on my government for health care, I'd be dead."

The ads go on to claim that Canadians wait a long time for care, are denied care or cannot access some drugs or treatments, "because the government says patients aren't worth it."

Holmes defended her appearance in the ad, saying she wanted to warn both Canadians and Americans, tens of millions of whom do not have health insurance, that many patients in Canada are falling through the cracks.

"Absolutely everybody deserves healthcare, there's no question," Holmes told CTV's Canada AM on Wednesday. "I think where the problem lies is that I'm really not comparable to the (patients) who are uninsured because I am insured, I had coverage. What I didn't have is access...this is what I'm concerned about, is that by providing everybody insurance, doesn't mean that everybody gets access."

Liberal MP and former health minister Ujjal Dosanjh has appeared on American talk shows over the past few days to counter the anti-universal health care message.

He told Canada AM on Wednesday that while patients do have to wait for some procedures, urgent issues "are treated fairly quickly."

"I think one of the things that we need to keep in mind is that Ms. Holmes may be an exception to the rule," Dosanjh said. "We shouldn't let extreme exceptions that can happen in any system define the entire system. We, according to her, have a wonderful healthcare system, and what we need to do is improve it."

The issue has exploded in the U.S. since President Barack Obama took office in January. Obama wants to overhaul the American health care system and expand coverage to the roughly 50 million Americans who do not have insurance.

The U.S. president is facing stiff opposition from both Democrats and Republicans and will take his case to the American people Wednesday night in a prime-time news conference.

Meanwhile, Holmes has tried to recoup some of the money she spent to get treatment in the U.S. The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) denied her original claim and she has a hearing on the matter scheduled in September.

Holmes admitted that patients receive "wonderful care in Ontario," and said it was not an easy decision to seek care south of the border.

"I think it's very, very odd for any Canadian to feel that they have to leave their country to find out what's dramatically wrong with them."

Comments are now closed for this story

CanadianinAmerica
said
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I'm Canadian, have been living in America for the last 4 years. We are insured.. but still fork out money every time we visit a doctor or hospital.

Bottom Line - Privatizing health care insurance IS and ALWAYS will be an awful system. You'll always have people not getting coverage and dieing because of lack of money. It cannot ever work.

The reason - it's a conflict of interest. Insurance companies have it in their interest not to pay. That is why many policies drop people when they get terminally ill, or only cover for a limited amount. It's all about hedging their bets so they can make a profit. So many Americans just DON"T GET THIS!! Why the heck would you have a health care system that has a fundamental financial interest in denying services when it gets too expensive.

Americans get sucked in to the scare tactics about long wait times. OOOHH look out evil socialism coming. Give me a break. The fact that anybody goes bankrupt because they get sick is repugnant. Americans who pay for health care insurance are going bankrupt because they get sick... and the poor and uneducated.. sure they get some coverage for free... but if they need something serious, like a transplant or chemotherapy, we'll they're out of luck. It's all about the money.

Ever have to negotiate with your home or car insurance provider? Been denied when you know you are covered? Can you imagine having to argue with insurance companies when you're terminally ill? That's horrible and it happens

onzer
said
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I almost died 2 years ago from a kidney failure. The doctors who took care of me were wonderful. They found out what was wrong with in 1 day put me on dialyiss and sent me home with a tube in my kidney within a week. They operated on me 4 month later but that was OK because I had to build up my strength and blood again. The operation was successful and now I am leading a normal life again. I can not say how proud I am of our health system. If I had lived in the states and had no insurance this would not have happened and I might have died. Yes there is problems in any system and I feel bad for the ones who get caught up in them but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.

Dave LeClair
said
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The fact that she spent $100000 and had to remortgage her home to get medical care is exactly why the American system needs reform. Not everyone can afford $100000 to save their life. In Canada, rich or poor, we get treated - eventually.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said
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THE TRUTH ALWAYS GETS IN THE WAY

Hell hath no fury like a Canadian subjected to a critical healthcare assessment from south of the 49th Parallel.

The truth is, our system is plagued with outdated diagnostic equipment, a shortage of imaging equipment, a shortage of general medical practitioners, a shortage of nursing practitioners, a shortage of medical specialists, inordinate wait-times for critical treatments, a shortage of surgical facilities, and massive fraud/abuse. As well, our track record of controlling infectious diseases is embarrassing.

However, of course, our �public� system yields good care overall, and covers all Canadians.

In the United States, an unregulated �private� system takes care of those who can afford private healthcare insurance; which means that, in fact, the vast majority of Americans have access to stellar healthcare (better than ours). Unfortunately, the cost of such coverage continues to rise at a disturbing rate, and, countless millions of Americans have no health insurance whatsoever.

However, the truth is, studies always indicate that the majority of those Americans carrying no health insurance could indeed afford basic �private� coverage but, instead, choose to spend their money on other things. (They are free to be stupid.) It is a false claim that this entire group �can�t afford� health insurance. The actual percentage of those who truly cannot is, in fact, rather small (but significant).

Automobile insurance, a private sector task, is mandated precisely because countless millions of (stupid) people wouldn�t bother to sign up.

The truth is, of those Americans who are insured, millions sign onto inadequate private coverage�because they�re cheap and foolish. Many of these folks, consequently, end up suffering financial ruin unnecessarily.

The private-vs.-public healthcare debate is a political garbage dump.

--------------------------------

THE SOLUTION: Americans must dance with the public sector and Canadians must dance with the private sector.

AE
said
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I am a Canadian citizen living in US. I am really tired of the the trashing the Canadian health care system is getting here. I would welcome anyone who is not happy with the health care in Canada to come here and deal with the insurance companies (if they manage to afford it, that is.) I had a brain issue last year and ended up having surgery and still have problems. Every MRI still requires multiple phone calls to and "approvals" from the insurance company. I know people who cannot afford the medication for their chronic problems like MS. And, they have insurance!

Billy
said
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i'm glad she is doing well, and got the treatment she needed. But don't go get treatment from another country then expect your country to pay your bills, it was her decision to go to the "states" to get the treatment in the first place, it was her decision to mortgage her $100,000 house....

Bill - Kelowna
said
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I hope none of you ever have to find out how bad our health care system really is. Try to get a PET scan in B.C. when you are diagnosed with cancer. The wait list is far too long several months. The wiating and uncertainty is torture.
We have one scanner working in B.C. which operates 25% of the time and they really don't care.

jkw in Calgary
said
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She absolutely has a point...I have for years been discouraged at the fact we in Canada a debate on healthcare is a "forbidden" thing....anybody that suggests there is anything that can be improved, is labelled "anti-Canadian" or worse yet "supporter of American Style system"....it is a taboo subject....very disturbing...

Of course it's not perfect, and I personally think people in a democracy should be allowed choice....it seems a bit "Cuban or USSR like" to me....why do I "have" to wait for 16 hours in emergency...

We've levelled the playing field below sea level!!

I hope her truthful and honest situation prompts a debate in our country too....but I am not optimistic!!

david
said
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It's fortunate that Shona Holmes had a 100,000 dollars to pay for her treatment. A pity most of the uninsured in the United States don't have this option as they are poor or renting. Shona must be proud to be used as a role model for the HMOs.

Ken in Ottawa
said
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One of the things that rarely gets mentioned in this debate is the number of hospitals in the U.S. that are going broke. I have a couple of them as clients. If the money runs out they close their doors. These are the hospitals that will offer care to the people who are not rich. Not going to happen under our system.

Paul J Graham, Saskatoon
said
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There will always be unfortunate problems with the health system. As long as its run by people, it will be flawed.

I don't blame her for wanting good treatment, but the American system is based on valuing people as economic units, not deserving people in need of care. Let us not be fooled by such overly capitalist thinking.

Besides that, what if the treatment was too expensive for her? It only served the purpose of this message because she was able to provide funds. If not, she would have been discarded like the homeless....this is the worst kind of media manipulation.

Brian Winnipeg
said
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Well, I for one am happy to see this lady speak out. I find it hilarious that there are some that seem to want her to keep the facts to herself so as to propagate the myth that there is effective health care in Canada.

My own grand mother spent weeks on a gurney in a hallway in a hospital - not even a semi-private room for crying out loud! Here in Winnipeg, we had a guy die in a hospital waiting room here because wait times are so ridiculous and there are so few qualified staff, not to mention most of the staff we do have are about ready to retire and there is nobody to replace them.

Every day we've got a certain minority abusing our health care system by showing up in emergency rooms with everything from paper cuts to stab wounds from drunken domestic disputes and the droves of people with legitimate illnesses at the hospitals have to wait in inflated lines behind these health care system abusers, and yet nobody dares say a word much less lift a finger to address any of it.

Instead, the magic silver bullet of an answer is to just throw more money at it, and as you can all see that isn't helping anything.

The problem is, the actions that need to be taken to correct the system can not be taken, because no politician with the remotest inclination of getting reelected wants to touch this issue with a ten foot pole.

Therefore, we the people have to suffer through a woefully inefficient system with outrageous wait times and sub standard facilities which are under staffed and "hope" nothing happens to us.

It's time to look at health care systems that actually work, like in France.

Kim
said
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I have had to use the Canadian heath care system a number of time over the years and I have to say I never had to wait and the care was awesome. My kids owe a debt of gratitude to our health care. Had I been in the US, I would have not had the coverage I needed.

Cancer Survivor
said
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Well - A lot of mixed feelings. All I can say is my parents are U.S. immigrants and they have lived in the States and their health care system is nothing compared to ours. That is why they came back. Here in Canada the medical system treats you equally. If "Holmes" didn't have the $100,000.00 that is so bragging about, the U.S. wouldn't even blink an eye for her. Being rich in the U.S. is number one for them. Holmes should be ashamed of being disloyal to Canada. Good One Homey! :(

Merry
said
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Annie in On, it's obvious that you've never had to deal with the US health care system if you think it's superior to the Canadian system.

Neither system is perfect but, as a Canadian who's lived in the US and dealt with their system for the last decade, I think I'm qualified to say that it's not a superior system.

I'm lucky enough to (a) have very good insurance through my employer and (b) work in a field that gives me access to a lot of knowledgable people who can help me find the best medical care when needed. Even with those advantages, I still think the Canadian system is better because it allows access for everyone.

Mike
said
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"Those of us who don't have $100,000 are very thankful we live in Canada"

Well genius, where do you think that $100,000 comes from? The magical health care fairy? We are all paying for health care one way or another (actually health care is the highest expense you pay for in your taxes). SOMEONE is paying for your bill. How about we encourage a competitive health system with affordable insurance rates and people can be responsible for themselves.

Gina
said
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I agree with Ms. Holmes that the care in the Canadian system is generally excellent, but gaining timely access can be quite difficult.

My 93 year old grndmother has been sitting in a hospital for 6 months, waiting for a bed in a long term care home.

She has been medically discharged from the hospital, but is still taking up a bed because she is too frail to return home and she does not qualify for government subsidized home care.

Someone needs to fix this system NOW!

Taryn
said
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I had surgery in 2006 on my arm only two weeks after I broke it.

My mother in law had part of her cancer removed the same week she was admitted to hospital.

My Dad�s heart surgery was scheduled 3 months after it was requested, and only because he has a backwards heart on the opposite side of his body, and there are only 2 maybe 3 surgeons in Toronto who can operate on him.

I don�t see the problem.

darren
said
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Hey Annie....give me a break. It may be against the law but it sure does not stop US hospitals from sticking deathly ill uninsured patients into a taxi and shipping them to a community hospital. All people may get emergency care but less than half can afford the follow up care required once they are kicked out of the hospital.

Doug - Edmonton
said
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I know our healthcare system is not perfect but let's look at the alternatives in the US. I have lived in the US and this is the way it is.

- going bankrupt
- having the insurance companies go through your policy with a fine tooth comb looking for ways to void your insurance when you get sick.
- getting discharged early from hospital to save money, even though patient is still sick
- getting rejected for insurance because of almost any precondition
- sky high premiums and deductibles
- having to stay locked in a job you hate just to keep health insurance.

Hmmm....Canadian healthcare doesn't sound so bad afterall.

The other hand
said
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I'm sure this article will appeal to the frustration felt by many people waiting for access to treatment in Canada. But we'd be fools to think that one woman's experience, at the Mayo Clinic of all places, represents either side of typical care recievers. Money talks and she shelled out. This is not indicative of anything but that! Minus the $100,000, her story would be different.

Waiting 9 months for an MRI in MB
said
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Universal health care without universal access is exactly what we have in Canada. No surprise Donsanjh is defending the system because he knows that as an MP he would be fast tracked should he require a procedure. A system such as ours that has gone so far as to fund abortion on demand and sex change operations while people requiring life saving and diagnostic procedures wait for months and months showcases how deplorable our medical system is. I applaud this woman for having the initiate to seek the care she needed and the courage to speak the truth. This should be a wake up call for all of us.

Michelle
said
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I want timely access to all services. Last year I needed a mammogram because the doctor found a lump. In Toronto, the earliest appointment was in 9 days. Are u kidding me? I hopped in my car drove to Lewiston NY and had the mammogram and diagnosis in a matter of a few hours. A few years back I had another medical crisis. The return of a benign yet very problematic pituitary tumor. 1 year, 1 year it took to properly diagnose. To all those people who don't think there are seriously problems with Ontario health care, take a walk in my shoes....you're deluding yourself.

Dave in Newington
said
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Reading all these comments it seems that each and everyone has a specific example to go one better than the previous....
The only example I can give that infuriated me was while visiting friends in Texas in 2002 and watching a talk show on a local TV station.....
Here is what the people on the show had to say about our health care system.....these included Caregivers,US Doctors,Nurses and a couple of HMO Reps
As a Canadian I was totally unaware of the following that these "experts" brought to my attention
Doctors in Canada do not have to pass exams like US Doctors and as such they are FAR less qualified and are paid little more that blue collar workers.
Emergency rooms are so crowded they are on par to hospitals in Africa, People waiting for days to be treated by a single med student and a couple of assistant nurses,with examples stating that in "Toronto Mission Catholic Hospital" (Doesn't exist!) just weeks earlier two babies had bled to death in emerg waiting for a doctor to see them...

This carried on for an hour, with a stack of people supposedly calling in with more examples....The doctors and the HMO reps stating that every Canadian they had spoke to prayed that one day the people of Canada would have a system as good as the US.

I was so incensed I spent the next half hour trying to phone in to the show....only to get a hang up when they found out where I was from and what I wanted to say.

When the US health care and it's insurance companies have to broadcast such complete and utter lies and untruths to supposedly "educate" the American public about Social medicine then you know that something stinks....

Mike in NB
said
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The Canadian system is seriously lacking in many regards, and the fact that the provinces COMPETE for health care professionals proves that Adam Smith's invisible hand is at work even in Canada's precious health care system. My brother (after two attempts) received a kidney transplant several weeks ago. The medications that will be required (over a lifetime) are very expensive, and NOT covered in Canada unless he has INSURANCE. I am thankful that he did not need to pay for the surgery, but healthcare is by far NOT FREE in Canada, or anywhere. People need insurance, because the government simply cannot afford to pay for everything for everyone.

I am so thankful that, if I cannot get care in Canada, I always have the option to travel to the US for healthcare. Will I lose that privilege if the US adopts a Canadian style system? As Canadians, we had better hope they do not change, as we (sitting as we do on their doorstep) have the opportunity right now to benefit from having the best of both worlds.

To all of us who have been "brainwashed" into believing in the wonderful merits of our system, please answer me one question. Why is it that we are so willing to travel to the US for care, but Americans never need (or want?) to come here in Canada for care?

As a father, three of my four children are hearing impaired. The government pays NOTHING to help with the costs of hearing aids, batteries, and the other equipment my children require to function in (and contribute to) society. The costs have been in the several tens of thousands of dollars over the years, and I am still paying. They will need to pay for a lifetime. Free healthcare? Some is, some isn't...

CHAD
said
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First off, this woman is only telling about her experience in government run health care system. All the universal healthcare advocates here are just embarrased, because something they blindly support is broken. The Canadian system played games with this woman's life. Yet you make her out to be the bad person, when she goes public with it.

It is true that not all Americans have health insurance, but they all have access to health care. If you are sick and go to an emergency room, you will get help. It is a big misconception that you would be left to die.

TT
said
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Ah yes, the old "It happened to me, so it can happen to you" trick. The oldest, dumbest trick in the book, and absurdly, the most reliable!!! As if one person, one extreme case of an individual, would play out in the lives of all others! (I'm askered! One person had a horrific experience with healthcare in Canada!!!)

In other news: The majority of Canadians are satisfied with their healthcare.

Paul in Ottawa
said
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How many Americans come to Canada seeking health care. Practically none, yet this woman is one of THOUSANDS who find it worthwhile to go south for health care. That tells you exactly who provides better care (hint, it ain't us)

Ian
said
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It's interesting how many people have suggested she move the the U.S. if she is so enamoured with their Health Care System - since she recently had brain surgery she would be denied insurance as she has a pre-existing condition!

A Koster - BC
said
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MRI wait lists reaching one year in B.C.
Updated: Wed Jun. 03 2009 18:51:30
ctvbc.ca

B.C. targeting $360 million in health care cuts
Updated: Wed Jul. 15 2009 21:50:37
The Canadian Press

Also:
As reported by another station last year... 3000 new cases of Hepatitis C per month with just half being approved for life saving interferon... the others left to die.

There is nothing that this woman says that is not the truth.

Monique Macaulay
said
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We Canadians really do not appreciate our Health Care System for what it is. 18 years ago, when I was seven months pregnant I had to have an emergency c-section. I had toximia and my baby was in distress. After the C-section my daughter had to stay for another 6 weeks in a special care nursery while I spent another week in the hospital. I was home for a week when I had to return to the hospital because of blood clots. I spent another week in the hospital. If I had been living in the United States I would never have been able to afford the cost of this treatment. My family would have been in debt for years. Maybe our system is not perfect(nothing is!), but nobody asked me for a credit card, or denied me treatment because I couldn't afford it. I was treated very well and in a timely manner. I will always be grateful for the Treatment I and my daughter recieved and thank my lucky stars that I don't live in United States.

5 years ago my mother was rushed to the hospital for breathing problems, she was diagnosed with blocked valves and had triple bypass surgury within 2 weeks. My brother was diagnosed with Heart problems and had triple bypass surgery. He also has severe kidney problems and recieves Dialysis 3 times a week. I wonder what all that would cost in the United States.

I believe in our system and I know they are always working to inprove things.

Been Through the Wringer
said
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I think before bashing this women many need to really take a look at the system that we have. Yes it for the most part works, especially in areas serviced by enough doctors but it is far from universal. How about 2 years to find out that you have a broken shoulder and instead of a sling for 4 to 6 weeks oops now you need surgery another year wait.

How about finally getting booked in for knee surgery and the Anastseologist "forgets" to show up for the surgery. See numerous doctors for back problems to be told that you are wasting their time to finally find out 3 years later that you had 2 fractures. Not story telling but facts.

Am I the unlucky one, don't think so. Oh yes and you need an MRI sorry the university athlete has priority. Great health care don't think so. Remember folks E-Health is part of this as well.

AWL
said
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As usual, the Canadian system is NOT compared to the US system, but instead is compared to a mythical perfect system which doesn't exist. No system is perfect, but there is no doubt that the US system does not meet the needs of literally million of Americans, while costing 4-times more and yielding poorer results than our system. The US system yields higher child mortality rates, lower life expectancy, etc. etc.

Bob
said
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I've had emergency treatment in Ontario ( gallstones ) and found it to be very good. Where we do have a problem is a lack of family doctors .. there just aren't enough of them.

Tunderbar
said
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One person feels a need to jump the queue and rush off to the US for treatment. 50 million people in the US don't even have a queue to stand in. Which is better?

And remember, it is possible to get fast good quality treatment in Canada as well as slow and poor quality treatment. And the sme holds for in the US. But we have universal access. No one loses a house or goes bankrupt due to medical bills in Canada. Giving birth does not involve mortgages, bank loans, or bankruptcies.

Jayme
said
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Diana
I don't think hospital should be a combo where you can you ohip service or you can pay.It should remain ohip etc only.Now there should be allowed to be private clincs where you can pay for the treatments.

Cheryl
said
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I am a proud Canadian who finds Ms Holmes's portrayal of our health care system very offensive. As Canadians, we access this system without ever having to first consider, like our American neighbours, if we can pay the bill or whether the HMO will have to approve the treatment first. My life threatening tumour was removed within 3 weeks of diagnosis. My elderly relative had spinal surgery within 7 days of reporting to the ER. Hooray for our system.

Ian
said
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Dear Bella, I find your attitude very callous and unfeeling. She has every right as a Canadian (and as an Ontarian who pays McGuinty's health tax/premium so we can get better health care service that was promised) who keeps getting fed the BS about how superior our health care system is.

It's true that Obama's plan will not work. They already have a health care professional shortage in the US and if they come up with his plan, where do you think they'll go to recruit doctors, nurses and technicians? CANADA! Yeah that'll really help our sorry situation won't it.

MARG MM
said
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It seems to me that Shona Holmes is just letting the Americans know that our universal health care system is not one that they should adopt.

While I'm all for medicare, our system is seriously flawed and rates Canada low on the list of countries with universal health care. We need to get over the "socialist mentality" and realize that a public/private system would be much more beneficial to everyone.

In Canada we already have a 2-tiered system, whether many want to believe or not. Thousands of Canadians pay into a private insurance to cover drug and other costs not covered by medicare. I know also that people unwilling to wait for diagnosis and have private MRI'S have been found to have cancers that if they had waited for the public system, would have been diagnosed too late.

An enormous amount of money is spent by all levels of Government into medicare, and the return to Canadians should be much better than it is. Private funds could surely help that.

Addy
said
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3 years ago my father had heart attack. We drove to Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga. He was seen within 3 minutes of entering the ER. Last year he was diagnosed with a tumor. He had an operation with in a week of the diagnosis and was in chemo a few weeks after that. He now doing very well. Our system may not be perfect, but if we had to for profit system like the US my father would not be here today. I think advocates for healthcare reform should speak to MANY Canadians not just the ones with bad experiences. They should also talk to Americans who've used our ERs when they could not afford care in the US.

Lorne from Brampton
said
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This argument is being mad too "black & while". Having a universal healthcare system where private pay-per-use is illegal in Canada is as unbelievable as not allowing universal care as an option for the uninsured south of the border.
What's wrong with private/public like in Europe? We North Americans need to better understand the "grey area" and drop the ideological warfare.

JB
said
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As a specialist in Canada, I am quite offended by Ms. Holmes' "story". Patients with malignant brain tumours get seen and treated quickly and appropriately. There is no doubt more to her story, I strongly suspect her "tumour" wasn't malignant and this was essentially an elective procedure. Unfortunately, without her medical record being made public, we can only listen to the facts as she interprets them.

Katie From Mississauga
said
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I strongly believe in our healthcare system when it comes to minor illness because we always have medication and a doctor available to us however when it comes to major illness like tumors i think that the real problem is that we lack the resources to efficiently treat patients. It is already known that many hospitals and health centres are under staffed and that isnt getting any better momentarily but hopefully we will have a bright future as individuals join the medical community. I know my best friends mom waited 5 months just to see a specialist about a relapse of breat cancer and sad to say it was only because there were so many patients and just not enough specialists.

Lois Major
said
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I'm a Canadian who has lived in the Bahamas for the past 30 years. We do not have health care here either and I pay $500.00 per month for single private health cover and then have a hefty deductible on all services. I had to wait 2 months to see a specialist even though this is paid health care. The reason it may take so long in Canada to receive treatment,is that so many Canadians access the treatments offered even when it is not necessary. Be glad you have it. I have a $2,000,000.00 life time ceiling on health care. Every time I go to the doctor, fill a prescription, have a test, etc. it counts toward my lifetime ceiling. It may not still be there when I really need it. Each province is different, but I know that in BC when my daughter needed it, the care was there, when my cousin needed it the care was there, when my mother needed it the care was there and when my father needed it the care was there,and they did not have to pay a penny. Not everyone has $100,000.00 to pay for treatment in the US. It is a disservice to suggest that the US and other countries do not need the type of health care that Canada offers. It can truly be a lifeline-be glad of what you have, the rest of us envy you.

Lauren from Toronto
said
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Free speech is integral to any functioning society. This individual, Canadian or otherwise, can say whatever she likes just as you and I have :) If she has an opinion...she has an opinion!

I wonder how many of these respondents (who seem to have such passionate opinions) actually voice them to higher-ups, politicians, etc.

Sharon
said
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"Bella wrote:
If Ms.Holmes doesn't like the health care in Canada she should move to the US permanently. I've seen these ads and i find them, as a Canadian, disparaging."

Precisely. I also think that the Canadian Health Care system has huge flaws, but bash-a-tory television ads will not help improve it. I also don't think that the OHIP should pay for her treatments either.

When I look at what goes on in the US and its health care system, I feel very fortunate here in Canada. Sure, there are waiting lists for surgery, whereas in the States you can get surgery quickly...provided that you have the money to pay for it! The waiting list for health care in the US is defined that some people have to wait for the dollars in their bank accounts to amount to the cost required in order for the treatment to be administered.

I wouldn't be surprised if there eventually might be a group of American seniors who would like to make a television ad praising the Canadian Health Care system, namely about how much less many of them have paid for their prescription medication when they bought them here in Canada, because it costs less.

Furthermore, maybe it could have been possible for Mrs.Holmes to seek private treatment for her cyst here in Montreal (the first Canadian city to have the most private clinics)? And maybe she wouldn't have blown 100 000 either...

Alistair McLaughlin
said
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Too many comments here are confusing our healthcare system with national pride and patriotism. The two should not be considered in the same discussion. The focus should always be about how to deliver the best possible care to Canadians at the best possible cost.

Just like debates over immigration immediately get side-tracked by accusations of racism and xenophobia, healthcare debates inevitably become mired in petty attacks on the patriotism of anyone who dares question the status quo.

Turning a dicussion about healthcare into an opportunity to stubbornly wrap one's self in the Maple Leaf is foolish, self-defeating, and a complete distraction from the real issue.

That such discussions on important issues routinely derailed by emotive declarations and petty accusations is a real shame. In the end, who loses the argument? We all do.

Logan
said
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Annie in ontario wrote that "Besides, it's against U.S. law to not treat anyone who needs it."

Annie, after it's all done in the states, they send the medical bill in the mail and you have to pay for it. Emergency or not, you will pay either during your recovery or after. There is no such thing as FREE SERVICE in America.

Sandra
said
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I do not need another father.

I want to have the option to choose whether I want to wait and see a doctor through ohip or whether I want to pay and have a private consultation and treatment right away.

Jake Toronto
said
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It�s good to highlight unusual situations so as to help improve the system but it�s no argument against universal health care. Right now, teams of doctors conduct health care expeditions across the USA for thousands of people who can�t afford health care for basic physical, dental and vision related care.

I�ll take a government run health care system over one that listed on the stock exchange, any day.

Pardon me if I�m a little suspicious of Shona Holmes and the timing of her opinions.

C Johnson
said
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It's true we don't have 2 tier healthcare.

It's more like 10 or 12 tiers. If this had happened to me, I would most definitely have died - I don't have a house to mortgage to seek outside treatment in a timely fashion.

The Canadian healthcare system could not care less about patients - it is all a numbers game now. Personally, I wonder if they aren't all competing to see who can skim the most off the top. Healthcare spending is insane.

Don't believe me? Ask your doctor where he/she gets the tongue depressors, and if they can look for the lowest price to keep expenses down. If finding out about that system doesn't make you wonder, nothing will.

Logan
said
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Pat in Ottawa wrote: "WE PAY DEARLY FOR OUR HEALTH CARE" .... Uhhh. We don't pay a darn CENT for our health care, so what in the world are you talking about?

Laurie
said
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Then off you go my dear...head south. Bon voyage. And oh..Have you used OHIP since then? I sure hope not..that would put the "hypocrite' in hippocratic oath wouldn't it?

SM from Brampton
said
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My mother had surgury for cancer in her lyrnex(sp?) a couple years ago. I told her about this retarded ad that I seen the other day. We have PLENTY of AMERICANS in our family. She told me that she paid like a couple hundred bucks where if she was in the U.S she would of been 100 thousand dollars in the whole.

Logan
said
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if you don't like what Canada offers, the door is always just to our south. I would wait and get my surgery done for free than pay 50,000 dollars to get it done right away in the states.

LS
said
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I have always received Health Care in Canada in a timely fashion. If it was an emergency it was treated that way and we got top notch care. I had a family member who went to the Mayo clinic only be misdiagnoised and sold equipment that she did require. You are a consumer in the US health care system not a patient.

steve (Ontario)
said
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I had a kidney stone and needed surgery, I thought the fine people at RVH and my urologist did a fantastic job in a timely manner. And I didn't have to pay for it, nor did I lose my job. I am very thankful that medicare is provide to use without having to break the bank. It may not be perfect but I'll never let it go without a fight.

It would be interesting to know how much money she made from doing these ads?

ann graham
said
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first off our health care in ontario is not free it is geared to our income someone such as myself who makes under 20 grand a year pays nothing someone in a higher bracket pays more and this works because nobody is ever turned away from getting the care they need and employers are not reguired to cover these costs 7 years ago i needed to have brain surgery i was diagnosed in feb of 2002 and had sucessful surgery on may 9 2002 and i am for ever grateful for our health care system because if i had been living in the states i could not of had this life saving surgery. so to the woman who seems to want to put down our system i say go live in the states where you seem to think you would be better off and leave us alone in ontario where we know we are better off and i truly hope the government dose not reimburse her in anyway i really think the politicans in the states could learn from us and i would really like to talk to them and them my story and how gratefull i am for our health care.

elizabeth
said
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Ridiculous, if it was life threatening, it would have been dealt with immediately.

My friend was just recently having problems with her eyesight, she was taken in for an MRI within a week, completely covered by OHIP!! I would never trade our health care for the American health system where the poor simply cannot afford to go for treatment.

Abdul
said
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Let the vain and impatient ingrates head south of the border whine about Canada and prop up the pay for health system, that lets the poor die because they can't afford insurance. The US system needs the money and we don't need whining ingrates sucking our system dry to pay for the removal of Benign cysts. Hey folks drive around that country for a while and see people living in third world conditions, Trailers with piles of trash around them, houses whose floors are falling through and ask yourself do you want that kind of system here? America the Beautiful my foot, it's a cesspool.

annie, ontario
said
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It's a toss up.

You can have universal health care, or better quality health care, but not both.

There's no disputing U.S. health care is superior to Canada.s for those that have it.

Besides, it's against U.S. law to not treat anyone who needs it.

Dave From Toronto
said
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I've seen these ads, and quite frankly they make me sick. Full of false information and biased analysis. What patients in Canada should get everytime the visit the hospital or doctor, is a "receipt" of a "summary" showing them what they would be billed if it wasn't for OHIP and the like. $12,000 for a broken arm, $200,000 for heart surgery.
Then they'd get it through their heads that they actually pay very little for the expensive care they do receive. NOT like Americans who die or declare bankruptcy because of (fairly minor) medical bills.

Jay
said
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Nova Scotia
There has to be more to it then it seems.

Clara - Ottawa
said
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No one is saying that our health care system is perfect. Of course there are the wait times, waiting for surgery, etc...but at least eventually we do get care.

My mom has been recently diagnosed with a rare type of leukemia...had we not had our great health care system she wouldn't be with us today. It would have cost more than a mortgage on our house to pay for the 4 months of hospitilization and treatments she had to go through to still be with us.

If Holmes likes the US health care system so much she should continue to go there...for everything...see how long it takes her to change her mind!

Corilea Benson
said
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I take her actions as a total lack of respect for our nation. If she chooses to be treated in the US - go for it, just don't expect to use the Canadian system when it is convenient.
It is only logical that wait times in the US are shorter. With the number of uninsured residents who avoid seeking medical treatment, for obvious reasons,there is bound to be less pressure on the system. At least every man, woman & child, wealth or poverty aside is treated equally in a nation that cares more for its people than padding the wallets of pharmaceutical companies & HMO's.

Diane
said
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I don't blame this woman for going to the United States.

What good is money if your life is at stake? Of course I would do the same thing if I were in the same situation.

Our problem is that we live in a country that does not allow us to pay for goods and services that should be our constitutional right.

The health care system can remain in the hands of the government but why should I have to pay a foreign hospital for faster service that I would be happy to pay for in Canada. It is shameful that private health care is a dirty word in this country. The extra money that people are willing to pay would help our system.

The US should adopt some form of universal health care..they have the population to support it.

Anna
said
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There is so much misguided discussion based on straw-man arguments going on here:

1) People here keep pointing out the flaws of the American healthcare system as if to prove Ms. Holmes wrong. Well, Ms. Holmes is NOT advocating for an American system. She is advocating against the Canadian system of complete government monopoly over healthcare. Just because she is against the Canadian system, and just because she made use of an American clinic once out of desperation, it does not follow that she is for the American system. There are other systems in the world that could work better.

2) What is all this nonsense about her doing these ads to get her 15 minutes of fame? For goodness' sake, she almost died because of a flaw in our system! You may not agree with her views or method, but being a victim is a pretty legitimate reason for speaking out.

Kamil
said
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A few months ago I had an injury when playing basketball, my ribs felt as if they were cracked and I feared that they were fractured. I needed to go for a scan and receive results in only three days since I had to leave the country. Not only did I skip a doctors appointment and was sent straight for x-rays, I also received my results a day early before my departure. Sure, not life threatening, but i was worried about leaving the country without getting checked. It cost me nothing other than my tax dollars. I just came back from Chicago two days ago, and after having been told by my family members how healthcare is in USA, I'm very VERY thankful to be living in Canada.

Ian in tokyo
said
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I am a Canadian living in Japan and have also lived in the U.S. I have experienced all 3 countries health systems and I can tell all that the Canadian and Japanese systems are far superior then that of the U.S.
In the U.S. I had "insurance" but an overnight visit to the emergency room ended up costing me $3000 because my treatment (urgent at the time 3:00 AM) was not pre-approved by the insurance company (who only operate 9 to 5) and to make things worse the hospital had a guard on me to make sure I didn't leave until I had a friend come with the money to pay!
I then had my insurance canceled due to "pre-existing conditions"
Here in Japan everyone has insurance, all employer must provide it and all plans are run by the government and for the self employed or unemployed there is as similar plan base on income. All these plans basically work the same and have 30% of the bill that you must pay at the hospital (this goes for drugs, treatments and dental) school age children and the elderly are 100% covered, this 30% has a cap of aprox $600 a month for high income and $300 for low, anything above this is reimbursed.
All medical fees are set by the government and this 30% make people think twice before showing up at the emergency room for no reason (the local clinic or doctor are cheaper) and also cuts down on unnecessary drugs. They also have a rule to treat regardless if you have insurance or not!
I would much prefer the "free" Canadian system but here we get dental.

Mike
said
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Has no one here seen the movie Sicko. Remember the guy from the US that had to choose which finger to save because he couldn't afford to save all of them! Where would that happen in Canada? It wouldn't!
Don't you realize how wonderful it is to have Universal Health Care. No it isn't perfect and there are some extreme cases, however, there are far more extreme cases in the US.
If universal care can work in France, UK and Canada then it can work in the US.

canadian working in us
said
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well if canada's health care is so bad, then don't come and ask the government to foot your medical bill! this is the problem in the US, many americans are being put into bankruptcy #1 reason health care bills - what canada has is great (not perfect) but at least its focusing on providing resources on preventative care - an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.

you'd be surprised to see how many american (citizens!) who foolishly give away money to insurance companies and when these americans end up in the hospital, how many denials the insurance company makes on paying for tests/procedures, etc.

i think canadians are lucky to have health care coverage - you'll see its value when you come and visit the US (or god forbid, have something happen to you to make you go to a US hospital).

Rick (Ontario)
said
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1-I had to wait 18 months for surgery on my arm. Not life threatening at all, but still painful. I asked my Dr. (plastic surgeon) why so long and his reply was that the operating room was only available to him 1 day every 2 weeks and it was only open for 8 hrs/day. Asked if McGuinty's health tax is making any difference and he just laughed and changed the subject.
2-My wife made an appointment with a Gyno in June. It's in Sept.
3-Wife's sister was diagnosed with cancer in Feb 08 and started her first Chemo treatment in Aug. It took 4-6 weeks to see the Oncologist for the first time. She passed in May.
4-We need to adopt a 2 tier system, whereas I can pay for what I need and take me off the public waiting list. I'm more than happy to help pay for those that can't. But with me paying more, I can get the speedy service I want and at the same time I'm off the public list. It's win-win all around.

Lynda, Ontario
said
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I have had three occasions on which to test our health care system and each time received immediate and excellent care - Breast Cancer, Ovarian Cancer and then a Heart Attack. I too question how much this woman is being paid by the U.S. organization and whether or not her need was indeed urgent or just a matter of her wanting it to be dealt with immediately. There are many unanswered questions. There are certainly situations which fall through the cracks but overall I feel our system works. Rather the way it is than have to pay for it out of pocket.

Kayla from Kingston
said
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This is ridiculous. Every health care system has flaws, and in the United States, if you don't have the means to pay for any check-up or treatment, you don't get it. Universal health care is the system that looks after the many people in Canada who otherwise would not be able to afford health care. As for efficiency, I really do think this woman is an extreme case. My father had two heart attacks and a stroke, and was looked after immediately. He also did not have to wait long for his much needed bypass surgery. If that's not a good enough example, my aunt had a brain tumor that was operated on the day after it was discovered, and she is now in great spirits. People need to stop being so unappreciative of what is available to them, especially something that we rely on so heavily, and something that billions of people (quite literally) do not have access to.

munro-toronto
said
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The simple truth of the matter is due to a lack of medical resources this woman may very well have died while waiting for health care from our government. She is but one of a large number of people with serious, potentially terminal medical conditions that are made to sit on the sidelines for months while the inadequate health care system tries to schedule them in. Canadian health care needs an overhaul.

Shane
said
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As I was reading this article, I remembered my 4 year old daughter was refered to a Ear Nose and Throat doctor 3 weeks ago. I have not had a call yet with an appointment so I called our family doctor to get an update....So I just called now and was told that a referal to a ENT doctor takes 3 months....!!!! And that is the shortest wait time for specialists.....!!
Ridiculous...
Maybe their is a problem somewhere here.....

BRENDA
said
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She only had a cyst! She mortgaged her house for a cyst. They are making it sound like she had brain cancer. Lets be real.

BG
said
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It's interesting that the Ontario Health Tax was implemented to correct the problems in Ontario's Health Care System.
Too bad Dalton and company are not using the money for Health Care.

Kwixote
said
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My 96 year old father-in-law recently underwent surgery for bladder growths.
They turned out to be malignant but not immediately terminal.
He was accepted for surgery very quickly and was not postponed because of his age.
I am proud our system and think this woman is looking to make a few bucks.

Tom in Toronto
said
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I couldn't agree with her more.

Our health-care system is broken.

Too many of us pay high taxes for a non-existent health-care system.

cheryl mcmanus
said
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It is one persons take on our system...she did not have a good experience but many of us have. I would challenge the American Group to interview other Canadians to speak candidly about our program. Choose people from different areas of our country, different social economic backgrounds...do the same in the United States. I wonder who would have the most complaints.
Like most people have said our system is not perfect however I can go into any hospital in Canada and know I will not be turned away.

Faye Cottingham (retired RN)
said
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As a recently retired RN with over 30 years experience practicing nursing in 4 Canadian provinces and 1 US state, I have struggled for several years with the problems in our Canadian health care system. In addition to a chronic shortage of Drs. and nurses, I believe we have "rationed" health care due to inadequate funding on the front lines. We should eliminate much of the bureaucracy, and put the money back in to surgery and reducing wait times. I have met many people both personally and professionally in the past 10-15 years who have had to wait 1-2 years for knee or hip surgery, all the while suffering in pain and a much-reduced quality of life. This is criminal, especially for older Canadians who may not have many good years left to live. If there is only so much money for certain surgeries per province, per year, then we should pay and send them somewhere where they can get timely health care!

Nova Scotia
said
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I believe Canadians and Americans should have access to both public and privatized health care. The wait times in Canada are absoloutely ridiculous and if I have the money to pay for my care, in my country and save my own life, I should have that option. Canadians should not have to go all across the globe to access necessary medical treatment as Shona Holmes has had to do.

Rob
said
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I like our concept...but we have to improve our system. The waiting is too long, the workers are over worked. Not more pay...more workers at the same pay.

Jeff - Fredericton
said
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there's more to this story than what she is telling.

I find it impossible to believe that Canadian health officals will let a Canadian die if they are deemed terminal.

She isn't telling the WHOLE truth.

And now she wants OHIP to pay for her expenses she sought, on her own, in the US.

Sounds to me someone should be moving south of the border.

No sympathy for this woman.

Joanne, a Canadian living in the U.S.
said
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I have experienced both systems firsthand. Honestly, I think a combination of the private/public health care system would be the best. I have no idea how that would be resolved.

While the only issue I had with the Canadian health care system was the time taken to get into see an ob - in the U.S. the health care it is faster, for sure, but mostly it's only available to those who can afford it. Each year you are responsible for what your insurance doesn't cover and it devastates me to think that people go bankrupt over health care. Sometimes I wonder if the reason this system is faster is because the poor can't afford to see a doctor...

Maybe a way can be found to incorporate the Canadian and American values.

Steve the Pundit
said
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Regrettably, this woman's experience is not unique. Canada has created a bloated, inefficient, bureaucratic nightmare of a system where, increasingly, patient needs are becoming overshadowed by other considerations. Anyone who has visited a hospital emergency room in recent months knows that the system is rapidly reaching a breaking point.

The Canadian "model" is not a model that should not be adopted in the US, because "unlimited universal access" actually leads to limited access and rationing of services.

True critical care, life-and-death "emergency" remains the exception, but only because resources can be prioritized (and other patients reprioritized) in order to save someone in imminent danger of losing their lives. But anyone who has a condition that's life-threatening in the longer term will definitely run up against the limitations of the Canadian system. And if your problem is chronic but not life threatening (like joint replacement) well, here's the lineup to join the lineup.

In all honesty, if I were ever in a position where a loved one was faced with a life-threatening disease, and I had the option of "paying for treatment", I'd mortgage everything I had to make it happen. Because I fear Canada's public system would not be there to help, if and when we really need it.

the old lady
said
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This Lady received treatment in the US because there was lots of room in hospital. There was lots of room in hospital because not many People have Health Care in the USA.
To me this means many People are going undiagnosed and dying without any care at all.
What is better, letting many die so a few are assured of care or insuring everyone and taking your turn? Damned if you do and damned if you don't.

Mark
said
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While I am a very patriotic Canadian, I am not so blinded to understand that we do not have the best healthcare system in the world, and I understand it is not FREE. However, while imperfect, it is a great system.
The U.S. can boast the same statement.
The statistic that 50 Million Americans do not have health insurance is misleading, as well. Most of that number have CHOSEN not to pay for the insurance. I have CHOSEN to pay for suplemental health care, life insurance, good car and home insurance, and foregone some other "luxuries" in my life. Those Americans who have chosen to opt out, have only themselves to blame.
I don't know what the answer is, my guess is to have a blend of the two systems, somehow.

Trevor
said
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To answer every person who is asking how much Mrs. Holmes was paid for the ads in the US, the answer is not one red cent. (the same phrase that the liberal MP from Vancouver south claims he has paid for health care since coming to Canada.

The words over taxation come to mind) Also to all the people who say she should have waited in line because she would not have died from the tumor I ask one question, Name the doctor (specialist) that was treating Mrs.Holmes' tumor in 2005 in fact name the doctor that diagnosed Mrs.Holmes in 2005. The answer is there wasn't one. But be a good canadian get back in line and go blind, if you're lucky.Oh and don't tell your horror story in case you get the thumbs down from the faceless bloggers. And as far as the numbers go 47 million without insurance(but still have access) works out to 1 in 10 americans. 5 million Canadians without a family doctor (which translates to no access to the specialists) is 1 in 6. We may be a little more trouble than Canada's health care advocates are letting on.

Mac
said
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Saw the ad and saw the interview you had with Ms. Holmes - a pawn if I ever saw one - of course our system isnt perfect and the US has alot of work ahead of them - My US friends spend 800-1000$ a month for health coverage... how much do you pay ??? - before she gets treated she has to PROVE she can pay or is covered...doesn't matter she may be bleeding ! when was the last time that happened to you ? We need more clinics to cut down the minor health issues taking up valuable hospital time.... We DO NEED to fix wait times.. ie run test/scan OR facilities etc 24 hours - - I had knee surgery cancelled because the OR couldn't run passed 6 pm - all because of a o previous surgery went over ! - bureaucracy at is finest.. We need action not discussion - here and south of the border for the sake of our health

GP
said
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Socialized medicine is the only thing that keeps us all from losing our shirts if and when we do really get ill. The best and most cost effective systems in the world is in Taiwan, followed by Japan, followed by European variations. Do some research. The biggest first step is to restructure the fee and payment schedules to resemble that of those countries.

I believe the reason Canada�s system is under so much pressure is because it is our misfortune to live next to the worlds only for profit, free market, health care system. Those Insurance companies and partners put enormous pressure on our politicians at every level to let them come in a �fix� our system. They are supported by everyone that stands to make a buck. Add to that the money doctors feel they are entitled to when they look south with envy, and you can see why our system in particular is under increasing threat...save your criticism, my first career was in medicine, I know many doctors are just in it for as much money as they can get. There are not many doctors left that consider medicine a higher calling.

Yes our public health system is not perfect, but inserting a layer of profit into the equation is absurd and will open the door to us all going to the poor house...just like this example.

Louis in Ottawa
said
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I was in a car accident about 8 years ago. One of my fingers was cut to the bone and required surgery. Within half a day I was in the Emergency room having surgery. Never had to wait, never had any problems. I have never heard anybody in my life complain about lack of care.

I wonder how much it would have cost me if I had that accident in the States...Probably more then NOTHING.

Anne M
said
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I am a breast cancer survivor, and can say nothing but good for the healthcare system. I was diagnosed early through a "routine" mammogram, treated quickly and thank GOD, I am a survivor.

I worked in the USA and believe me their healthcare is not as good as we have in Canada. Yes, some changes need to be made in their system, but not at the expense of Canada.

KLS
said
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"I think one of the things that we need to keep in mind is that Ms. Holmes may be an exception to the rule," Dosanjh said. "We shouldn't let extreme exceptions that can happen in any system define the entire system.

This is kind of off topic, but if that's the way the government really feels, why can's we bring back capital punishment?

Spud Lite, Ottawa
said
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It remains disturbing (from the standpoint of a Canadian) to see so many apologists for Big Pharma and Big Medico posting opposition to the Canadian version of universal health care. The thesis is that North Americans want CHOICE!

So, many Americans have the choice to DIE because they don't have access to services - either because they don't have medical insurance, or they're being denied services by the insurance companies with which they deal.

They might take the money that is being spent on invading sovereign nations halfway around the world (and in which other nations, like Canada, are stuck with the clean-up operations), and spend it on their own populace.

Americans (and some Canadians) in current good health may not consider the positive aspects of socialized medicine until something really nasty is staring them in the face.

Would anybody reading this posting welcome the thought of re-mortgaging their home to have something relatively trivial sorted out in a hospital?

Lee-Anne
said
0 0

The Canadian Healthcare System, while imperfect, is far superior to the US System.

I ask readers, what would this woman have done if she resided in the US and did not have private insurance?

What happens to the thousands of Americans who live in poverty and cannot afford private insurance, those who have lost their insurance due to job loss or those who after they have become ill are dumped by their insurance carriers.

Canada does not deny ANY citizen access to health care. Canadian citizens do not have to go bankrupt or without health care due to an illness. And therein lies the beauty and superiority of the Canadian Health Care system.

Kris D.
said
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Somebody asked why the former Liberal Health Minsiter was being interviewed and defending our system and not our current Conservative Health Minister.

Probably because it would make Tony Clement gag if he had to defend our "socialist" health care system. They'd rather we have a private system where people like Holmes can jump the que because they have the money.

patriotic canadian
said
0 0

I am proud to be a canadian. we live in the BEST country in the world. We have - maybe not the best health care system, but who does? AND i never never ever have to worry about going bankrupt or losing my house if i get sick! I LOVE CANADA!

and i am very embarrassed that this woman is putting our system down.

D Cross from Toronto
said
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I have very little respect for those who feel entitled to rubbish our health care system based on a few unfortunate stories that may be fabrications or may only contain small elements of truth. We don't know all the facts. We can only judge from our own experience and from my experience our system serves us all fairly well and equally. I am very thankful for our health care system. If it can be made better then let's focus on doing that rather than bad-mouthing Canada.

chante
said
0 0

I've read everyone's comments and I'm left wondering if any of you clearly understand all of the health care problems that people face on both sides of the borders... Opinions are great to have, but it's also important that we get the correct facts concerning health care issues before choosing to agree or dissagree with Ms.Holmes's actions.

Sophie
said
0 0

A friend of mine was is in remission for approx. 2 years. He has a swelling in the same general area where the cancer had been before. His Canadian doctor thinks he is no longer in remission and wants to schedule an MRI ASAP and other tests. But notified my friend to go South of the border to have the test done as the wait time will be months before he can get in. Within a few days of the Doctors visit in Canada, the MRI has been done south of the border. Now what does that say about our health care when our own Canadian doctors are recommending we seek help in the USA. Our health care is great if you�re having a baby, sick with a cold or something. But don�t be dying or have anything major wrong because too many fall through the cracks.

Jenn
said
0 0

My 2 1/2 yr old niece was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on Jan. 15, by Jan. 17th she had started chemo. She has just finished her last round and hopefully the end of it. I realized during her fight how much we should appreciate our health care in Canada. My brother and sister in law didn't have to pay for anything that she needed,the hospital took care of everything for her. My sister in law has been off work since Jan. so w/ out that income and if they had to shell out thousands of dollars for her care, they would be so far in debt. The hospital didn't even hesitate to get her admitted right away and start chemo. I am sure there are flaws in our system but I am grateful we have it.

Alistair McLaughlin
said
0 0

Neither Canada nor the US has a healthcare system worth emulating. Both are swamped with excessive regulations and restrictions that render efficient healthcare delivery all but impossible. The US just managed to find a way to spend even more on it than we do.

Many European nations seem to have struck the appropriate balance in which universal, publicly-financed healthcare is available, while supplementing this with optional private insurance and delivery. Neither Canadians nor Americans should be looking across the border for answers to healthcare reform. They should both be looking overseas.

Canadian in Houston
said
0 0

I hope she was compensated well for her appearance in the TV ads, that she recoups her money, and was not simply used by these lobbyists who (as is usually the case) have their own selfish agenda.

As a Canadian living in Houston presently, I have had a chance to evaluate both systems. I would not hesitate to say that the Canadian system is head and shoulders above the system here in the US when it comes to caring for the citizens -- all of them. Not surprising since apparently in the US being a 'liberal' is a bad word -- but that is another subject.

I have lived in Newfoundland, New Brunswick, and Ontario and have used their health care systems for many years. Never did I have to wait for service more than 1 hour, or not get good treatment, etc. Both my kids were born in New Brunswick and the care there was first rate. Drugs were very affordable and there is no co-pay.

Granted we never had any major surgery or anything like that while in Canada, but I can likewise compare what I get here in the US.

If you have a good plan with your employer then you are most likely okay. I have not had bad service over here either.

However the point that many are missing is what happens to the folk who have no coverage through their employer, or simply no coverage. Here they simply have to die.

Then there is the cost of drugs and tests. The first sense when I moved here was utter shock! I was convinced that the system was run by a bunch of shysters looking to line their own pockets -- all ripping the US taxpayer off.

That view has not changed. The system is broken and needs to be fixed. Period.

jean from Bathurst
said
0 0

The problem with universal health care is if you are not satisfied with the service the government is providing you are unable to use a private health care option.For an example you can spend money on cigarettes which are bad for your health but you cant spend your own money on health insurance.

M from Calgary
said
0 0

Don't fool yourself. The American system is not better than the Canadian system. I hear horror stories from my sister, who is a Canadian trained nurse living and working in California for the past 15 years. Their system has just as many problems, even if you have a very good insurance plan! Anyone can get great service for $100,000. If you are an American without 100k, then you want to live in Canada.

Ian
said
0 0

We can all moan and whine about our healthcare system and in most cases rightfully so as the times for surgery can vary significantly. However let it be known that as a taxpayer and user of hospital facilities and services, they have been there when needed. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on your perspective, our system is not profit orientated and as such things wait. I also know first hand that depending on your insurance or financial position in the US, you get the service dependant upon your financial means. For Ms.Holmes, she elected to go stateside for her treatment and as such she should pay for it and not the taxpayers of this country. Our system isn't perfect by any stretch of the imagination, however i would suspect that for those who needed the system in a hurry, it was there for them. The same cannot be said about the US system.

Jasper
said
0 0

Some are obviously forgetting that access to health care is a right and not a privelege granted by wealth, or at least it shouldn't be. Also, a basic fact of life is that you cannot trust anyone who is trying to profit from you, even if their role is to provide health care.

Rob C
said
0 0

I found these commercials and some of what the American law makers to say in reporting today to be disgusting and in some cases terribly misleading. While our system is not perfect it is quite exceptional by most standards and I have never been denied the care I needed when I needed nor has my family.

If you want perfect please also indicate how much you want your taxes to go up by or how much you are prepared to pay out of pocket.

Me I'll maintain the status quo and if I need more find a way I guess.

Bryan from Lethbridge
said
0 0

I've experineced both systems and both have advantages and problems.

The problem with the US system is that it's incredibly expensive and you're dealing with insurance companies for everything. The advantage is if you're privately insured the care is timely, of high quality and effective.

The advantage of the Candadian system is that it's universal, you don't have to deal with insurance corporations who most definitely do NOT have your best interests in mind. The service is timely and of high quality IF you have acute symptoms that are obvious and easily diagnosed with a clear course of treatment, (i.e. heart attack). The disadvangate is that if you have mild or conflicting symptoms that do not have an immediately obvious threat to life then you wait... if those mild symptoms are hiding a potentially dangerous and life threatening condition you very likely are in serious trouble.

Personally I totally understand Mrs Holmes point of view. We have average employer based coverage. My wife recently had some minor complications after her last pregnancy. Our US family doctor on a gut feel sent her same day to a specialist cardiologist who in consultation with her specialist obstetrican and specialist gynocologist who together ,(all this happened in a matter of hours, by the way) decided on an appropriate battery of tests, (just in case) and caught a life threatening embolism. There were no acute or obvious symptoms to indicate anything was seriously wrong.

bottom line if we'd been in Alberta she would now be dead!

AK
said
0 0

Of course the system will fail some, but at the end of the day, at least you have a choice. 50 million Americans have their bank accounts make the choice for them. I would rather poor/free healthcare over none at all.

Please Read This...............
said
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People!!!!!!!!! Healthcare in Canada is NOT FREE!!!!!!
Only to those who don't work in this country is anything free. I lose 30% of every paycheck, pay 13% on everything i purchase and don't ever see a doctor or require healthcare because i look after myself. How is this fair for me??? Should i require it, i would gladly take back every penny i have ever put in the system and use that to pay my OWN way.
A friend had a serious brain injury in the states and the care they recieved there before being sent back to canada was amazing. One nurse to 2 patients, when do you see that in canada? MRI, cat scan daily to check the progress and swelling. Our system is completely broken. USA would be making a huge mistake to model after us.

Dick Kearns
said
0 0

Each of us have our own stories to tell. I was advised in November 2007 that I needed by-pass surgery and that my situation was relatively critical. I had my surgery in Toronto on December 3rd 2007. I waited approximately two weeks . I am sure that many people have long waits for care but until something better arrives my satisfaction level is pretty good with our health services.

Rick (Ontario)
said
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It also seems that the majority of Canadians really don't have a clue how the US health system works. You can be flat broke and living on the streets and can't be turned down for medical treatment. The US has free walk in clinics all over the place. Another misconception Canadians have about the US.

hutch
said
0 0

Nothing in this world is perfect and yes, the wealthy in the States get perhaps faster access than most of us. However our system works for us and that's what matters. I recall when I was a child - quite a few years ago - my parents paid for my appendix surgery in monthly instalments for over one year, after that my brother's, then our tonsils and so it went. It seems they constantly paid instalments to doctors and hospitals.
I suppose on a personal note if I or my loved ones had to wait lengthy and unreasonable times for a life saving procedure, I would investigate availability in the US as well, but by and large our health care system is most certainly one of the better ones.

Lee Tanner
said
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*****The ROOT OF THE PROBLEM in Canada:

Is we don't have enough health care workers... doctors, nurses, xray technicians, etc.... We allow unions to rule and don't give everyone access to medical school (too expensive and limited enrollment) in Canada...and, we don't allow foreign trained doctors easier access to our work fields. The result is everything gets backed up... including research and funding. It's a shame.

NH-Regina
said
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I am sorry that Ms. Holmes have to go through such difficulties to get her treatment. However, I am not sure, if she is realising that there are 50 million americans with no care at all and by advocating for this, she is denying them an opportunity and their right as americans to have access to healthcare. If she had lived in USA and had to pay for every single medical necessity, she would have realised how important this is for them. I seriously hope that she will reconsider this. ONLY OTHER EXPLANTAION I CAN THINK OF IS THAT SHE IS GETTING PAID TO DO THIS. I wish she had an opportunity to find more about healthcare in other countries and USA before she did this.

Pierre Lachaine
said
0 0

I had chronic kidney disease for more than 2 decades, was on dialysis for 4 years, and I've had a cadaveric kidney transplant for 3 years. I also happen to be involved with a patient support group in which the majority of members are Americans. All I can say is that based on what I've seen, if this condition started all over for me today, I would still rather be a Canadian.

Art in Alberta
said
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I have friends that grew up in Canada and relocated to the US years ago for work. They claim to love the US system because they don't have to wait for services; I'm happy for them. If Canadians do not like the universal health care that the rest of the country prides itself on, move. Plain and simple. Is our system perfect? No. With our system though, we can go to a doctor as soon as we feel slightly ill. Catching illnesses early will prevent complications and wait times for needed services.

I am a proud Canadian and am vehemently opposed to changes in our health care system that provides for a two - tiered system.

Shame on Ms Holmes for publicly trashing a system that would have left her dead, and then turn around and try to recoup money she opted to spend in the US. This should never happen.

Michael, Cambridge On
said
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RE to JD comment "anything the public sector can do, the private sector can do better. That's a fact."

I must disagree to this... Remember ENRON? They went greedy just like any companies can....

They had Calforina state in blackout for two months because they want people to think that there isn't enough power so they can rise price in electricity therefore huge return of profit, which is like stealing.

Private sector can do better job?

I doubt it...

Government should be replaced with private sector eh? CEO will own your sin card.

nice eh? I don't think so.

JB
said
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As a Canadian I am appalled and embarrassed by the ad. In the past three years I have had my son, my mother and my father all diagnosed with cancer. I am grateful to report all three are doing well thanks to the quick and thorough treatment they received under our Canadian health care system. Thank God we live in a country were we do not have to worry about what to do in the case of care for any illness be it serious or otherwise. Is there room for improvement, absolutely, there are few things in this world that can't be improved upon, but that doesn't take away from how good we already have it. There is no comparison. To imply the current American system is some how superior is seriously missleading.

Liz
said
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One other thing, if all of you feel the health care system here is so flawed....pay for your own treatment like you would if we didn't have free health care. I'm sure a lot of people would rather a short wait. People have options, they can go to another city for treatment if there is too long of a wait and get faster care. Lot's of people would rather sit on their butts and complain though!

Sarah - Ottawa
said
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Yes, understandably there are going to be wait times for specialists, and for procedures. There are how many patients to how many doctors and nurses?? Yes, there are priorities, but remember, just because you are hurt now, does not mean that you go above the list of someone else in the same type of condition that was diagnosed before you. The systems have to be worked at, they never get better over night. Those that think that because they want it, they will get it now.. well get in line. You are thinking in the clouds, get back to reality..

Ann Ward
said
0 0

While our health care system is in need of some major overhauls. I have to say that Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Orillia Ontario is a fantastic hospital. They have always treated us well and wait times are not large. I would recommend this hospital to anyone and this is a smaller community hospital.

One of the problems with our health care system is that people go to the doctors for just a sniffle. If a cold hasn't gone away after two weeks then go see the doctor. If I or my children have colds then I only seek medical treatment when absolutely necessary.

The other thing we need to do in our health care system is set up clinics that can set minor bone breaks, do xrays, minor surgeries instead of putting the burden on our hospitals. This would alleviate emergency room backlogs I'm sure.

I'd definitely rather live in Canada for our health care system than the US. Imagine what you would have to pay if you didn't have insurance. You are always going to find people with bad experiences with the medical system and those with good experiences.

Candy
said
0 0

As canadians, we are obviously short on staff. We need more incentives to keep canadian doctors in canada, instead of going south of the border and elsewhere. Our system could work in the US.... why? because our wait times have to do with the fact that we don't have enough DOCTORS to do the work in a timely manner, hense the wait!!!! Unfortunately I believe in Obama more than my own government to do what is needed to make a healthcare system such as the one we have in canada already ACTUALLY WORK! I believe our healthcare system in canada is on the right track.... We just need A LOT of improvment to get us where we need to be! I think that ms. Holmes should be more of an advocate to FIX the healthcare system here in Canada, and the rest of us should do the same. SPEAK UP CANADA!!!!

Concerned Canadian
said
0 0

Every country faces the same dilemma: there is only so much of the GDP that is available for health care. The only issue is how different countries decide to allocate scarce resources. Ultimately, it's a moral choice that reflects different values.

In Canada we pay $3,700 each for health care. For that, we get very good service when we have an emergency situation like a heart attack or cancer (at least in the experience of my family), fairly good service when it comes to less important problems like hip replacements, and poorer service when it comes to minor problems.

But everyone is covered equally.

In the States, if you have money, you have excellent coverage for any problem. If you are middle class, you may have fairly good coverage for most things provided your insurance will cover you, and only up to your insurance limit. If you are poor, chances are you have no insurance, and very limited coverage for anything.

Yet here in Canada, our infant mortality rate is lower than in the States, and we live longer on average. No one is financially destroyed if they get sick and lack coverage. Our overall health is better.

So this would seem to be an easy choice: we pay $2,400 less, and get more on average for most people.

So who is holding up the evolution of the system in the States? Ask yourselves where the extra money goes: who stands to lose if the States adopts a Canadian-like system?

Insurance companies.

And yet the ads complain about "bureaucrats" getting between a patient and doctor in Canada!

In a not-for-profit system, the focus can be on health. In a for-profit private system, where's the focus?

Money.

And that's the moral distinction between the two systems. One's about people. The other's about profit.

Mary Ann
said
0 0

I have to say reading the comments on this article(of which I am surprised), and then the thumbs up and down system. It seems if someone has a good example of our health care they have a thumbs up, and the opposite for criticism of the system. Are Canadians not allowed to talk about the parts of our medical system that are not perfect?, because no system is perfect. No one can say what they would do when the medical community fails them. I for one am not going to throw rocks at them for saying so.

Lili (Boondocks)
said
0 0

"I think it's very, very odd for any Canadian to feel that they have to leave their country to find out what's dramatically wrong with them."

What!? This woman panicked over a "growth" - not even diagnosed as malignant at the time, or else the article is leaving something out - and because she wasn't getting the speedy response she wanted, she went to the US for treatment. And now she wants an organisation that didn't in fact treat her (but WOULD HAVE), to pay her back for foolishly mortgaging her home? Let her move to the U.S. and get the care she so richly deserves. Eventually she'll run out of money. Oh, but I guess she can just keep selling herself on American TV.

I've had surgery in Ontario three times (for three different things), and while I did need to wait for two of them (they were for things that greatly affected my health but were non-fatal), the third, emergency surgery was scheduled for three hours after I was diagnosed with an appendix that was about to burst. At no time was I concerned about having to pay for the surgeries or recuperative care, nor about losing my job when I had to stay home to heal up.

People fall through the cracks in every social system. They certainly do in the U.S. where people don't seek medical care because they can't afford it.

harblthecat
said
0 0

As a professional, I'd always planned to to move to the States find a job with excellent medical coverage, but still maintain a Canadian residence and pay the Provincial premium.

That way, in the odd chance that there was some condition my American health insurance didn't pay for, or I lost my job, I could just come back to Canada and get my "free" health care.

If Obama's health care plan goes through, it seems I may not be able to go through with it. So we all ought to thank Obama for keeping Canadians back in Canada.

Laura
said
0 0

At least here in Canada we don't nickle and dime those with minor problems to prevent them from becoming major problems. When was the last time you heard about someone dying in Canada for an untreated minor infection?

In the USA many people lack access to BASIC health care. But no one wants to talk about that. It's more dramatic to talk about drastic rare problems.

Dave in Ottawa
said
0 0

Lets say we had the best medical facilities in the world but as long as our doctors continue to move to the U.S., we will continue to wait for services. Face it, we wait because we don't have the medical professionals to treat us. To the American's poll your medical practitioners to see how many are Canadian and ask �why do you work in the USA?� Answer: $$$$

Get the Facts
said
0 0

Ok folks in a world of money drives everything you can get what you want when you want it. Not something we as Canadians subscribe to. But here are some facts.

2008 Life expectancy
Canada 80.34
US 78.06

Infant mortality Rate
Canada 4.8 per 1000
US 6.31 per 1000

Mortality rate Cancer Females
Canada 148.2 per 1000
US 160.5 per 1000

Mortality rate Cancer Males
Canada 215.1 per 1000
US 234.1 per 1000

World Heath Organization Heath Care System Ranking
Canada 30th out of 191 countries
US 37th out of 191 countries

Healthcare Spending PerCapita 1998
Canada $1847
US $4055

Healthcare Spending % GDP
Canada 10%
US 15%

In the United States, access to health care is primarily determined by whether a person has access to funding to pay for treatment and by the availability of services in the area and by willingness of the provider to deliver service at the price set by the insurer. In Canada the wait time is set according the availability of services in the area and by the relative need of the person needing treatment.

So folks anyway you cut it wait times does not change the fact that we live longer in Canada, have less children die, have better survival rates with cancer overall. Oh ya Americans pay thousands more per capita and 5% more of their GDP% and we cover everyone, US well......

For all you on the wait list bandwangon. Talk to your doctor, he is the one that has determined you can wait, based on your medical need and priority. NOT because you have money, or know someone, or because of the colour of your skin.

This woman in the article is an opportunist.

LAC
said
0 0

I would like to know from someone knowledgeable, where is all the money put into healthcare going? Wait times are longer, service is worse, access is worse. We have many qualified professionals in this country but I really don't see an improvement. What are we actually doing with all the money being put into healthcare?

jiulu
said
0 0

On one hand canadians are proud and appreciate our health system, on the other hand, we should have choice like Holmes did, and we have to admit the problem of our own. where can canadians go to if US change their health system like us? I guess I will go to Asia...assuming the long waiting time is true in some medical areas.

Rudy Haugeneder
said
0 0

Shona Holmes has a right to be angry that the Canadian health system failed her.
She represents a tiny, tiny faction of people who fall through the cracks, unlike the U.S. private system where statistics involving major surgeries and treatments show that many, many people are denied expensive life-saving treatment by insurers who intentionally restrict complete medical treatments to people who thought they were protected.
It's time Canada fought back with U.S. television commercials to show how good our Medicare system is for almost everybody in this country.
In fact, the federal and provincial governments should solicit help from other countries with Medicare to pay for blanket TV commercials in the USA to show how great the public health system is -- and also admit that errors do occur from time to time, albeit rarely.
Come on Canada. Fight back.

Rudy Haugeneder
Victoria, BC

CanadianScot
said
0 0

I watched this ad and was very angry. In fact, I could not believe what I was hearing. I know our Health Care system is not perfect but the impression she gives is one of total disregard and that is so not true. There will always be waiting lists in a public system it stands to reason.

On the other hand, I believe there is a place for private health care and we should adopt it, if people want to pay let them. In the UK they have public and private working very well beside each other. The National Health system is there for everyone and is actually very good, prescription charges $20 for everything, sick pay when your company doesnt cover you. Seniors pay nothing after 65 for prescriptions and various other health needs regardless of their income.

Nothing is perfect but to spout that public health care (government)is not good is nonsense.

jmp
said
0 0

Under no circumstances should the tax payers be paying for her choice to go south for her "non life threatening" surgery.

I have full confidence in our health care system... if your life is in danger you jump the queue and rightfully so... if your life is not in danger and the possiblity of it being in danger is extremely small... then no, you don't get to jump the queue... you may experience some pain and need extra medication until your surgery time... but when all is said and done... you wait, you get the surgery, you get better... and you allow the seriously sick to get the URGENT care that they need.

How dare this woman put herself before the many seriously ill people.

Sean
said
0 0

So things are perfect up here, but keep the status quo in the states....makes sense eh!!!! As Merry stated, waits happen in the states with people who have insurance and often don't get treatment if the need is disputed or if it isn't part of their coverage.

sdg356
said
0 0

IF what she says is true. Do you really blame her for going where she could get the required treatment. Costs be damned. And do you really blame her for telling everyone she can about her experiences. Probably she makes a little money to recoup her costs.

Good for her. Why did she need to go to the extra efforts to get treatement?

John Savard
said
0 0

There's nothing wrong with Canada's health care system that an absolute and open-ended commitment by the Federal government to provide whatever funding is necessary so that everyone receives all necessary medical treatments without delay would not cure. Our present system lacks such a commitment, and instead the Canada Health Act even limits what people can do for themselves, as a way to pressure cash-strapped Provincial governments.

Michael, Cambridge On
said
0 0

To those who said that some of their relative or friend or themselves suffered or died because doctor didn't take time to listen...

First of all, I am sorry to hear about their loss and their suffer. However, I must point out in defence of Healthcare in Canada that those people can always seek or demand their doctor to listen and do their job. At any point your doctor didn't listen to you and you demand action to be happen and it will as it must be as per health act code.

If doctor didn't treat you properly then seek other doctor and have OHIP look into this matter.

Report it or something like that...

Don't stand around and suffer... Demand them to check you.

It is also your responsible to ensure that you have a good doctor because doctors are human just as us.. They can be good. All doctors has their flaws parts and it is your responsible to ensure that your health are properly being taken care of.

Period.

mhz
said
0 0

One of your readers, Bella, says any Canadians not satisfied with OHIP should move permanently to the U.S. That is a stupid remark caused only by ignorance. I am another Canadian who has an illness which unless treated will put me in a wheel chair or worse. I Have geen trying since October to have treatment only to be met with indifference. Believe me if I could afford it I too would go to Mayo. As they say if you haven't experienced it DON'T KNOCK IT!!

Jake
said
0 0

How much does it cost the system to have 'hearings' just to throw up road blocks to people getting their health cared for?

Ask not for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee.

Kevin in T.O.
said
0 0

Bella wrote:
If Ms.Holmes doesn't like the health care in Canada she should move to the US permanently. I've seen these ads and i find them, as a Canadian, disparaging.

I can't believe 155 of you gave this comment a thumbs up. This lady was a failure of our universal health care system, is speaking out about it in order to impove care across the board, and you tell her to leave. Shameful! I believe in the concept that no one should be denied adequate health care because of inability to pay. But our system is in serious trouble. Keeping our heads buried in the sand and being force fed rhetoric from disingenous politicians like Ujjal Dosanjh won't solve the problem. We need a parallel private system to alleviate the wait times and bring back more physicians and specialists to Canada. The alternative is to continue on this path of blind ideology and watching more needless deaths occur because of inadequate access to timely treatment.

NE in NB
said
0 0

One example - which is the exception, not the rule - does not warrant her bashing our system.

I'm alive today because of OUR system. She forgots the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who have life threathening illness addressed immediately and to the highest calibre by our health care professionals. I am one of those!!

If I lived south of the border, however, I would never have been able to afford the tests that found the problem and led to my life being saved.

To paint the whole system is flawed based on one experience is ridiculous. Try asking the rest of us who have been saved for an evaluation first before you judge our system is failing. It may need to improve, but it will take volumes to list the problems with the current American system. Its ONLY immediate treatment if you have the cash!!!

Steve From Alberta
said
0 0

Our health Care system is not perfect and it is still being modified to make it better, but we are so short on doctors and nurses and well i think everyone in there life has been to the hospital, doctors need 13 years of training before they are fully licensed, nurses are 4. The programs for these are very difficult so not many people want to do them, we need more doctors and people are right to complain about wait times but they are wrong saying the American System is better because it is not, my girlfriend is from Holland and did not have insurance and needed to go to the emergency room, they treated her and then worried about money, luckily it was nothing serious. But in the states they would have said to bad go away and would not have done anything.

WestofTheRockies
said
0 0

For a measly $1,200 or so/yr ($1000.00 US) and no cost at all if you make under 28K/yr. Canadians have available to us medical care that is indisputably some of the best in the World.

Anyone who thinks there are no wait times in the U.S. is just delusional. With a sister who lives in the U.S. and works as a nurse in critical care I�m assured there is little difference in care and they have huge wait times as well unless you pay to be seen by a private care centre as did this woman. If she lived in the U.S. with standard health insurance she would not have been treated any faster, unless of course she paid for it as she did.

Additionally if she could not afford health insurance, she would have difficulty getting any treatment at all and if she did get treatment she would be saddled with life altering debt.

How paying 10 or more times our health premiums for health insurance, could be better as is the case in the US is inconceivable. Throw in the fact that your insurance company decides who you can see and then may decline coverage after the fact and it's a big stretch to see how the US system is better.

I have never had to wait an inordinate time for medical treatment nor has anyone in my family. I've watched numerous relatives & friends treated for life threatening and life ending illnesses without waiting and with compassion.

The major trouble with our health care system and a major drain of resources is that it is abused by a small but significant number of people. None of these people show up in the US system because it costs them. This leaves capacity there for those that really need care.

thebigd
said
0 0

Just wanted to throw this out there because of the timing.

I thought I injured my foot Two nights ago - it has been very painful ever since and while I regretted going to emergency because of the wait times, etc - I eventually gave in and went to emerg this morning.

For all the crap our healthcare system takes today was an incredible experience. I was in the hospital at 6:00 am, through triage nurse by 6:15 and was able to see a doctor by 6:45. By 7:30 I had a diagnoses that made sense and everything was done.

I agree our healthcare system is no perfect... but that in itself doesnt make private healthcare better. Considering there are nearly 50 million americans without healthcare... and medical expenses are a major cause of divorce.. how could anyone want to head down that route?

Dan
said
0 0

I don�t know where all this bad health care in Canada is...but I have never had these issues. When I found out I had health issues, I had my specialist within 2 weeks. Whenever I need a scan of any sort, I get it within 48 hours. If it�s not urgent, then of course the more urgent cases come first, but every body thinks they are more important than the next person and waiting to get their issues looked at is a major inconvenience to them. That�s why we have people complaining about our health care. Maybe people should be more willing to wait their turn in line instead of jumping the border to get overly expensive health care.

Jenn
said
0 0

I don't know if we can blame the health care system, government, College of physicians and surgeons, or doctors/specialist. There should be NO blame cast. The government has to work together, we all have to work together to recruit more specialists, doctors, and medical staff! I think the bottom line is that Canada is suffering a HUGE shortage of all healthcare workers, and it's showing its effect! Wait times are not because of the government, or weither patients are MORE urgent than others, its due to the fact that there are WAY more patients than there are doctors to care for them. We need to look at this, and figure out how our government, provincially and nationally, can intice doctors to come, and STAY in Canada. We Canadians need to find a way to intice our home doctors to stay and to recruit more to coming! If all we do is complain about our healthcare system, we're not doing it any help. Any foreign doctor who was thinking about coming,...why would they, if this is what we think! Let's work together and try to figure out how we can solve this issue!

Ilana
said
0 0

Obviously Ms Holmes does not know any American cancer patients. I know individuals who had to remortgage their homes even with their wonderful insurance. Also, if she lived in the States, does she realize that she would never be able to get insured because she has a pre-existing condition?

davidovich
said
0 0

It's about time somebody provided an antidote to the America Bashing, Michael Moore loving, Starbucks Brigade.

"Ooooooh Canadian Health Care, it's soooooo great. We are soooo much better than the Americans. We are sooooo superior in every way."

Yeah, go drink another Latte.

Two sides of a coin
said
0 0

Patient with a knee ligament tear.

When my original ortho surgeon retired in Ontario, I had to wait one and a half year to be seen by another ortho surgeon. I waited another 10 months for surgery but ran out of time and had to move to the states for personal reasons. In the states, I was able to see an ortho surgeon in 3 weeks and schedule a surgery within 6 weeks. But the employer subsidized insurance premium down here can run way over $500 per month for a family of four. In addition, you are subjected to a deductable for med visit and surgery.

The system in Canada is not perfect but tries to provide required health care to everyone in need. Wait time sucks but vast majority of patients receive required care no matter what the financial situation is.

In the states, I would not be surprised for one person like me who has proper insurance, there are multiple people out there with no medical insurance walking and living in pain due to a torn ligament. I think it is very likely that because of those who can't afford medical care, the medical resources are left available to care for those who can afford it.

You pick which one you like.

Doug BC
said
0 0

Why are these two people poking their noses into American politics? This is an American debate and something for Americans to decide.They have difficult choices to make,and the last thing they need is a bunch of busy bodies from the nanny state sticking their noses into issues that are none of their business.It wasn't that long ago that Ujjal Dosanjh was berrating PM Harper for his time on the USA media circuit.
That said,both countries have problems.and both should be looking for improvements.But not from each other.We should both be looking at systems that work properly.In Canada we spend about $3700 per capita on health care every year.And the cost is rising so fast that they system will collapse at some point.Less access is just the beginning of the collapse so system which has unsustainable cost growth.In the USA they get far better service IF they can afford to pay more than $1000 per month for the premiums.They now spend almost $6000 per capita for that,and still leave to many with no coverage at all.
In office,Mr.Dosanjh had little of nothing to say about making our system better.His only suggestion was to throw even more money at the unionized health care workers.Americans should be asking him why he thinks he can help their system when he couldn't help ours.

Shawn in Montr�al
said
0 0

Of course our system is not perfect, what system is? but 2 years ago my father was diagnosed with Stage 3 Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He was immediately put on chemo and other treatments. We were told due to the late diagnosis it was 'treatable' but not "curable" with only a chance of partial remission.

Well I am pleased to report that two years later he is in total remission (something the Drs had also said was not possible) and is doing very well. He gets regular check ups and we know that down the road the cancer will flair back; but we ALSO know that he will get the treatments he needs, and gives us the many years yet to come.

My Father is here today BECAUSE of Universal Canadian Health Care.

LDL in ONT
said
0 0

If I may I'd like to offer a personal testimony in support of our system. In short an immediate family member had an operation that would have literally cost $200,000 plus. I paid zip. I am eternally grateful. I don't complain when I pay my (Ont) Health Tax. I don't complain when I visit a hospital and pay $10 to park, nor do I complain because I've had to wait in an emergency room or clinic. Thank you Canada. If other countries don't want to adopt our system or a variation of it, it could care less.

RJ
said
0 0

My father was diagnosed cancerous pollyps in his stomach...surgery wait time to remove 1/3 of his stomach was 2 months...My dad was rushed to hospital with pulminary adema where it was determined after he was stabilized he needed quintuple bypass surgery...wait time, 3 days due to emergency situations causing a DELAY...my father had kidney failure and the hospital took him in and provided him with the most modern method of dialysis available...

When people trash the Canadian medical system, I can understand that because it is broken in some places. I'm just grateful that when my family needed it, it was working like clockwork. I can't say the same for anyone in the US.

Michael, Cambridge On
said
0 0

Universal Health Care does work however it is not easy project.

Would you like to put your health in insurance's hand? They only seek profit. That is what Captialism is about. They will fight you till you die.... That happened to many american who found out that their insurance doesn't cover certain part of their unexpected health problem asrise upon them....

Profit Profit Profit... Greed Greed Greed as we see what is happening in America...

I prefer to put my health in hand of tax money because it is not about profit.

Also we can hold government accountable unlike greed CEO of insurance companies.

Tsk Tsk.... Shame on people who don't believe in Socailism. It is good system that just need a improvenment just like everything else.

To further to add to this that police service is also a form of socialism so keep your mouth shut if you are about to slam me for supporting socailism.

Have a good day and good health to ya'all.

Mario - Rockland
said
0 0

It's amazing what money will buy - a Canadian's soul to the highest American buyer. Do not be fooled, the pressure and the influence by the lobbying industry on behalf of the private american health industry is gigantic. Too bad they are using our own to do it.

CTV should try reporting the full story.
said
0 0

On the Mayo Clinic's website, Shona Holmes is a success story. But it's somewhat different story than all the headlines might have implied. Holmes' "brain tumour" was actually a Rathke's Cleft Cyst on her pituitary gland. To quote an American source, the John Wayne Cancer Center, "Rathke's Cleft Cysts are not true tumors or neoplasms; instead they are benign cysts."

BC John
said
0 0

One wonders what Ms. Holmes paid to deliver her children, or what the hospital bills would have been for the various maladies she has faced in her life. Perhaps she knows some people in Canada who, like millions of Americans have been forced into personal bankruptcy over medical bills. Instead, she chooses to be a shill for American insurance companies when she actually knows better. Shame on her.

KC in Vancouver
said
0 0

This is absurd. Every time the issue of reforming health care (in either Canada or the USA) comes up, it gets framed as "Canadian public health care VS US private health care".

As if these two countries and their respective systems were the only approaches available.

Really, neither of the two countries has that much to be proud of. In the World Health Organization's rankings of health care systems, both Canada and the US rank in the 30s out of a list 190 countries.

There are alot of other countries in the world, most of which have mixed public and private health, and 30 of which are considered superior to both Canada and the US.

It's time to take off the ideological blinders and look at health care models from around the world, that have better results.

Elly
said
0 0

We should be *very thankful* for the health care we have does it have a few flaws sure it does BUT its better than having nothing at all like millions of Americans or paying thru the nose to insurance companies who when push comes to shove dont pay for half of what they claim too

I have been an asthmatic all my life and always got great health care from my doctors and hospitals
I just recently had bowel problems
got to a specialist quickly and had an mir about 10 tens days later
this woman wants her 15 minutes of fame with the media in my opinion and does not appreciate what she has right here in Canada
I will take our health care any day over theirs and am most grateful to our government for it

Elly-Kingston Ont

G
said
0 0

There is a lot of waste in the Canadian systme and not alo of options either...

If you want medical therapy for a heart condition good luck finding that option in Canada (about 3k in costs). Instead you receive a stint or opena heart (about 10k to 25k in costs respectively). Risks are the same for all three procedures and 92% of people are candidates for medical therapy but it is not offered in Canada.

Why not?????

Simon
said
0 0

The wait times in Canada are excessive in some cases for some conditions but not all.

But whenever I have needed to visit an emergency room, have an X-ray or other diagnostisc the experience here has been far more pleasant than any I have had in the UK.

There they have a mixture of public health care, available to all and private available to those with insurance or the money to pay.

The only problem with the UK system is that the private care is for profit.

If there was some way private care could be not-for-profit with any extra funds from private patients being pumped in to the public system we could have the best of both worlds.

She didn't have a tumor; it was a benign cyst.
said
0 0

She would have got the care she needed when she needed it without going to the US.

However, for the impatient and the wealthy, the US is an option.

Chris, Irishtown NL
said
0 0

It would appear that Ms. Holmes supports a system that allows better access for some and none for the rest. Our system needs improving, but at least everyone is covered. It must be great to have lots of money......

Mandosa
said
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Its truly laughable the amount of people here referring to our Canadian 'free' health care system.
Take a look at your next paycheque, and every tax on every purchase you make, oh ya, and if you care, the national debt we are loading up (translation: steeling from our children), and tell me again about our 'free' system.

The difference here is you're not allowed to spend extra money for extra care if you want. Our socialist system knows we're not adult enough to make that decision for ourselves.

Liz
said
0 0

Screw ups do happen.

The majority of Canadians are very lucky to have the health care coverage that we do, especially in difficult economic times.

I can only hope that the rest of the Democrats and Republicans realize that their duty is to serve all Americans. Most can't afford the care they need.

Bring universal coverage to America, and save as many lives as you can!

THE Fatman
said
0 0

'Chris (Northern Ontario)

Since we started paying a health care tax in Ontario quite a few years ago the health care system has gotten drastically worse. Where is all the money going?....'

Can you say e-Health boys and girls?

David in Sudbury
said
0 0

Our health care system is top rate. The medical professionals (doctors, nurses, technicians, etc.) are in general well educated, caring and professional individuals. Our technology and research rivals anywhere else in the world.

The problem we have is TIMELY ACCESS to our health care system. If you can't get in to see these professionals, it doesn't do you any good. There is a drastic shortage of doctors in this country. Until that is fixed, which won't be anytime soon, there is no realistic way to fix the problem of timely access.

In my opinion, OHIP should cover the costs of her procedure in the US to the extent it would have cost to have it done here in Ontario. Then, they should look at how to avoid the need for these situations in the future.

Working South of the Boarder
said
0 0

Having temporarily relocated to the US because of my job, I can tell you about some of my personal experiences.

We are a family of 4 with one child who was diagnosed with Celiac disease while still in Canada. While living in rural southern Ontario I can tell you we never had too many good experiences with our medical system. �Elective Surgeries� (ie: to cure something that would immediately kill you) could take 6 � 8 months to schedule. Trying to see a family Doctor would take 3 weeks. Emergency room line ups were for hours because no one can see their family physician.
Our daughter took 2 years of sickness and weight loss before she was finally correctly diagnosed. 2 family doctors and 1 pediatrician all miss diagnosed her and refused to send us on to a specialist. It was only after taking matters into our own hands, driving my daughter to �Sick Kids� in London on a Sunday morning storming through the front door and literally demanding that someone look at her �� that she finally received the care she needed.

Since living in the US we have had nothing but positive experiences. And we are in Rural Vermont, not some big city. Hospitals are clean and modern; you can see your family physician the same day you book an appointment; and test results are given to you immediately and sometimes the doctors call you at home to speak to you directly.

Yes in the US we pay for a portion of it. We do have heath care coverage through my work. But you know what? My personal income tax is much much lower. So in my experience, the service is better, faster and cost wise ��.. about the same.

I do tire when I hear from my fellow Canadians that our healthcare is the best in the world and its �free�. Nothing is free; it�s in your taxes. Perhaps if more Canadians actually saw the bill for their Doctor visits, the system would be less abused. Give the Canadian system 5 more years and it will be on the brink of collapse.

JR in Halifax
said
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Yeah, my wife and I got to experience the American healthcare system while vacationing in Florida and I got to tell I'm sure glad to be Canadian and we had travel insurance.

Elissa
said
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Good for her. The Canadian health care system is falling apart at the seams. If you don't see it, get your head out of the sand! She is bringing the ugly truth to the surface for all to see. We ARE fortunate to have health care, but if the system is broken, how beneficial is it to have? A good friend of mine had to wait 3 months before starting chemotherapy. THREE MONTHS knowing that the cancer was growing inside him.UNACCEPTABLE.

G
said
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What about those who don't have a home to mortgage to pay for care?

I think the Canadain system needs to be revamped after a European model.

I also think that one public insurance system is all you need for the insurance...and have as many private providers as needed to fulfill our health care needs and they are paid by the public insurance...no private billing...simple really.

Jayme
said
0 0

charlie98
If everything she is saying is true then yes that is a concern.My probleam is her story seems a bit odd and does not seem to add up.While i am sure there was a wait is it as long is she is saying that is what i am having trouble with.When you have a issue like her you will get treatment almost right away might be a month or 2 but you will get treatment.What i think may have happened is she went to the mayo and then some how got in touch with this group and i am sure she got paid very well for the ad.So before saying good for her as taking this story as beeing %100 true take a step back and look at at alot of it does not add up.

Alan
said
0 0

She is a fraught; according to her interview and facts check from the CBC, she did not even have a tumor but had a cyst; she did not have a scientifically based prognostic of terminal illness but a second hand opinion and she could not confirm that her diagnostic was such a life threatening to trigger a move up the list in Canada but a common disease albeit serious but not critical.

In addition, the people who hired her are the same nuts that believe, still based on the CBC fact checking, that global warming is a hoax.

No system will ever be perfect but I rather have an imperfect one like ours rather than having 25% of Canadian not covered or, a profit seeking corporation decide what my treatment could be.

It is up to the US people to be fooled or not but, as a Canadian, I feel ashamed by such a platen manipulation of the truth in order to prevent what I consider a basic human rights to be delivered to a large portion of the US population.

Nadine (toronto)
said
0 0

for the most part health care in ontario is good (of course there are the ER wait times). but i have a HUGE problem with the ministry and how little priority is given to mental health issues (specifically eating disorders). Wait times to get into a inpatient treatment programs for eating disorders are close to two years, or you have to pay insane fees. its so frustrating. universal health care or private health care, there are problems and there are always going to be people not getting the best care or given the right priority. its sad.

mike4343
said
0 0

The real problem with the health care in Canada is the misuse of it. Hospitals are clogged up with people with headaches and sniffles. Another thing, sometimes when a 91 yr old gets cancer, or has a stroke, it is time to die. There has to be a limit on who we keep alive for a few more weeks only for the selfishness of the family.

Anne
said
0 0

This woman does us a disservice speaking like that - my family has had to use health services many times, and our care has always been appropriate and timely, including a heart attack episode. Of course you can get immediate service in the States - if you have the money. She is very much mistaken that the patient controls health care down there - the health insurance conglomerates do. I wouldn't trade with US healthcare, not one bit.

Larry
said
0 0

I too used nearly $40,000 of my future retirement savings to pay for neck surgery in the States back in 2006.

This type of surgery was not funded or supported by the medical system we have here in Canada at the time of my same day surgey operation...
which for me was a success.

The Canadian doctors were offered to be trained by this Clinic in the States but most refused
because they couldn't afford the tiime away from their practice to learn this procedure.

What does that say about our sytem.

Oh ya almost forgot...

I had an MRI done in 15 minutes
before the operation the following day.

I could have died if it were for OHIP
said
0 0

I agree 100% that the Canadian health care system is awful. The reason I say this is because if I would not have had access to the US system, I could have been in some very unlucky circumstances.

When I was 29 I was diagnosed with a pituitary brain tumor. Surgery was too risky and there was only one kind of drug (taken twice weekly for 5 years) which could help me. Yet the Ontario government told me they would not pay for the $16,000 in annual drug costs because I was too young. "Most people who get this tumor are elderly. So if you'd be 65 or older, OHIP would pay for it."

I have also had 6 lymph nodes removed in the United States all because in Thunder Bay it took 13 months just to get an appointment for a consultation with a general surgeon.

I was also without a family doctor from 1994 to 2008.

The Canadian health care system SUCKS and I hope the US does not copy it. Otherwise, the next time I have a medical emergency which I can't get addressed in Ontario in a timely manner, I would have to travel even further to stay alive.

Of course, there are issues with the American system, but in my experience, it was much quicker, better and friendlier than what we have here.

MW in Thunder Bay

Robbie
said
0 0

Also, I'm sorry but many complaints seem to come from "backwater" towns that I'm sure are nice enough, but that very few doctors choose to set up shop. I've lived in moderate to very urban areas, and NEVER had a problem to get care, a doctors appointment. My father is dealing with Parkinsons and Cancer, and has MRI's timely and access to free drugs because of his age. My father would likely be dead in the U.S. system, or they would have sold their house, and lost every little thing they had to keep him alive. His life is still rich and full. Frankly...I've had more problems with past dentists (present one is great) who I'm paid for directly. Trust me, for profit turns health care into a "Used Car" lot, with doctors dreaming up treatments and keeping you on the carousel of billing.

Taylor
said
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I have to agree with whoever it was above that it IS the extremes that should be considered when making a case, and not just the minimal norms. However what people are forgetting is that for many people the "norms" as in broken bones, lacerations, minor surgery etc. are still expensive to those who can not afford them.

My experience with Canadian hospitals is limited to Toronto where I grew up, breaking a total of 7 bones in the process. Albeit I've only been in emerge, the fracture clinic, radiology and plastic surgery (which who knew includes broken thumbs), but I've found the system adequate with a few hour waits here or there but eventually my bones are set and I'm on my way.

The treatment of rare diseases and expensive complex surgery very well may be a good indicator of a health care system, but the question is...

Should getting minimal health care to everyone be placed above getting advanced health care to some?

R. Reynolds
said
0 0

I agree with many of the comments that have been posted here, in their criticism of Ms. Holmes' assessment of the Canadian healthcare system. I think her opinion is short-sighted and narrow, and fails to consider that not all Americans have private health coverage, nor could they afford $100k from their own pocket. Given the choice of a 6-month wait or no treatment at all, I suspect many Americans would choose the former.

But I have to disagree with some of the comments that have suggested she not be allowed to speak out, or that we should revoke her citizenship, or we should deny her of coverage in the future because of what she has said. Despite the fact I disagree with her, Ms. Holmes is still welcome in my Canada, and she is still welcome to express her opinion.

Elmore Fisk
said
0 0

"If Ms.Holmes doesn't like the health care in Canada she should move to the US permanently. I've seen these ads and i find them, as a Canadian, disparaging."

You've got to be kidding me? Her stating the truth about what happened to her - the fact that our health care system almost killed her - is un-Canadian?

It think it's you who should be ashamed.

Ed from BC
said
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To all those who snidely assume this woman was being paid, if you listened to her interview on the CBC yesterday (and I'm sure you wouldn't listen to any other station) she did not receive a dime for her participation.

Last month having dinner in a restaurant in Seattle I overhead a university student describing his treatment for a pancreas condition. He saw his family doctor one Thursday morning, a specialist before noon that day. They did MRI and nuclear isotope tests that afternoon and he went in for surgery on the following Monday. Do you honestly think that would ever happen in Canada?

True North
said
0 0

She had a benign cyst that was not life threatening. That is why she had to wait 6 months. If her condition had been life threatening then it would have been dealt with quickly.

Alan
said
0 0

On a recent trip to the southern US I was saddened by the comments I heard about the Canadian health system from Americans we spoke to. Many, many related stories or incidents that they had heard about with our system (none firsthand experiences).
A couple of years ago my wife was diagnosed with cancer and was immediately into chemo and radiation. Shortly after she suffered a series of TIA's and had emergency surgery on a Sunday.
The lesson I have learned is that when it is really needed help is there. My wife had excellent care throughout and I cannot say enough about the support she received from the health care workers. So as I say it disappoints me when a Mrs Holmes goes on national tv to blast the Canadian system and perpetuate with Americans the myth of a terrible health system that they wouldn't touch with a barge pole.

Earlier generations have worked to give us this system and like anything it can use some tuning but I for one am thankful for it.

AmyK Ottawa
said
0 0

Health care in the US is BIG business...I'd like to know how much $$$$ Shona was paid to be in the ads? Betcha her re-mortgaged house is now paid off.

charlie98
said
0 0

@Weston Gwillimbury from Bradford, Ontario
Don't buy into the hype that there are 50 million uninsured Americans. According to a story today the number is ~11 million and possibly fewer . There are at least 10 million illegals and 17 million who can afford it but choose not to get insurance. If your objective was to impose a socialist health care system for all then it's smart to inflate the numbers to make the problem bigger than it really is. As Rahm says, don't let a good crises go to waste.

I watched an interview with Holmes who said that her personal physician told her she would be dead before her wait time was reached. Congrats to her and all her supporters who refused to accept some bureaucrats go home and die quietly decision on how to run a health care system.

Rick in AB
said
0 0

'Doug BC', you hit the nail on the head buddy!! Those who complain the loudest are the first ones with thier hands out to the Gov't when they are in need.

I could probably afford the 100 grand and be in debt forever, but why should I have to. I haven't used the system to that extent but my father has and he could ill afford that amount. So I have no problem supporting the few who can't do it themselves. We have a far better system than the US, by far. For one thing, there is far less fraud in our structured system.

That's why I am totally against this two tier system developing here in AB and elsewhere. I think the gov't needs to step in and grab this by the throat before it gets out of hand.

Tim- Brantford
said
0 0

What arrogance this woman has, to trash our healthcare system. Then at the same moment try to get that same system to pay her to do it. I hope she was paid well for those ads, she can use that money to pay for her treatments she was unwilling to wait in line for here.

I truly hope the adjudicator at her hearing simply laughs her out of the room.

Maybe she can move to the U.S. if she feels it's better there.

JD
said
0 0

anything the public sector can do, the private sector can do better. That's a fact.

cath
said
0 0

We all make choices and Shona obviously prefers the American Medical System, therefore, let her use it for ALL her medical needs, and OHIP will be free of another albatross.
If our emergency rooms were not full of people who shouldn't be there our system would be much better.
Emergency rooms are for life-threatening illnesses not an upset stomach, headache, or a boo-boo that requires a bandaid
Furthermore if the media would stop spreading mass histeria re: pandemics and food-poisoning these hypochondriacs might stay home drink plenty of fluids and rest in bed.
I believe that the critically ill are looked after in a timely manner and those with non-life threatening illnesses can wait their turn.

Richard Kurowski
said
0 0

I wonder how much she got paid for babbling away. If she does not like it here, STAY THERE.

Peanut
said
0 0

I have a few complaints of our system but I have always been taken care of by our Drs, specialists and ERS. Anything that looked like it could be extremly serious I was looked after immediately. I am ashamed of her antics. I am greatfull that I live in Canada as I could not afford to pay for the services and medications I have had to have over the years.

very concerned
said
0 0

The health care system in Canada is pathetic, I can't even get a family doctor, forcing me to go to a clinic which is get people in and out as fast as possible, or I could go sit in an emergency room and wait literally 24hrs +. Then you have to get refered, then this, then that, a person would be dead by the time anything got done... i applaud this woman

Matt
said
0 0

Just a question... why does the Liberal MP Ujjal Dosanjh (former Health Minister) have to be the spokesperson for Canada? Where is our current Health Minister?

bob
said
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I am disgusted by this ad playing in all 50 US states. I agree that our system needs serious work and that some people fall through the cracks but for the most part, we have a system that works. Nobody goes bankrupt. If you are in a car wreck and seriously injured you are cared for and there is no massive, life changing bill at the other end.
We as Canadians need to let our American counterparts know that we care about this issue because a lot of us have family down there. Are we not legitimately concerned for their well-being?

What other reason can there be for our interest in this story at all if not for that?

Don
said
0 0

My uncle has a badly injured back. He had to endure 7 months of pain before seeing a specialist. He then had to wait 4 months for surgery. To top all this when he went to Sunnybrook for surgery they tried to send him home for lack of beds. The fact that he is a WWII veteran came into play as we threatened to call in the press to show how even our veterans are treated like dirt. Suddenly a bed was available and the surgery was done.

Eleven moths of severe pain treated with morphine. Come on folks our system does not work!

The Other Lowell in BC
said
0 0

I was always under the impression that when you go to an American ER, the first thing they ask you for is your credit card number. Have an health issue in the US, you will pay dearly. Thank you very much I will take the Canadian system any day. I may have to wait but I won't have to take a second mortgage on my house to pay for it. However I am appalled by how Canadian health authorities spend healthcare $$'s. Case in point is Ontario's scandal around millions being spent on eHealth with nothing to show for it.

Heimlich von Strausenberger from Detroit, Michigan
said
0 0

re: Hobovilage Hornbeam

It's not a true ratio because there is a growing divide with Americans between the upper class and lower class. Many minorities (Mexicans, African Americans, Latinos) can't afford healthcare since they are discriminated against right from the get go.

Sean
said
0 0

What we need in Canada is a way to validate the service we are offered. Our health cards should be like a Health credit card. We use it to pay for health care when required. If we don't like the service, we can go elsewhere to get "better" service using our card, or simply "not pay". (obviously, there needs to be a valid reason for this and a procedure to follow)

Also, there should be a mechanism to show a statement to the patient on what was billed and the cost. Further, there should be a tax credit to those of us lucky and healthy enough not to use it.

People use health care service all the time, we need to know what we are paying for, and also need to have a choice of where we get this care. Waiting hours for Emergency care, or months for critical care is ridicules.

T
said
0 0

I don't know about you... but I would rather wait, then have to Mortgage my house!!!!

Darcy from Sudbury
said
0 0

Glad she had the opportunity to remortgage her home and that there weren't any complications. However, she's had the fortune many people haven't had and have lost everything due to the US' two-tier system. No system is perfect, but Canada's is one that is fair...for everyone!

Cara B
said
0 0

My sister and I both suffered from the same health problem that required major abdominal surgery. My sister is a US citizen living in the US, and I am a Canadian citizen living in Canada. The difference in our treatment? It certainly wasn't in the timing - both of us had surgery scheduled within months of the diagnosis. She, however, then hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt (even though she was insured), had to declare bankruptcy. Not only did my surgery cost me nothing, but EI covered part of my six weeks off work.

Canadians should be proud of what they have. US style health care only works if you have the money to pay for it. Obviously this lady has now discovered that fact since she's asking Canada's health care system to pay for her US bill.

Christine
said
0 0

I just cannot believe all the negative comments about her here.

If she didn't go somewhere else she wouldn't be alive... how can you possibly say "shame on her"... if you were in her shoes you would do the same.

My Mom died of crohn's disease when I was 17.. it's NOT a terminal illness...

She died because not ONE doctor took the time to actually listen to her needs for 10 years - and she suffered, BADLY. THAT is the kind of health care that we have here in Canada... only YOU can look out for YOU... Good for her

Brian in TO
said
0 0

I'm not sure some of the posters here actually understand the story. This woman would be DEAD if she waited for health care here in Canada. To me, that's a failure of our system. I too would be pretty critical of our health care system if it failed me in such a serious manner.

Sure universal health care is a great thing. You don't have to pay a small fortune if you break your leg or get seriously ill but there are HUGE problems in our system. There is no sense in providing unwavering support to a system that has problems that should be found and fixed. Let's be sensible and pragmatic.

That being said, the United States has a great opportunity to create an effective system accessible to everyone that delivers affordable health care in a reasonable amount of time by seeing where other nations have made mistakes and learning from them.

Dawn
said
0 0

And what about the stories we hear about in the US where HMO's refuse to pay for certain treatments? Neither systmen is perfect, but I would much rather have ours. Even of those in the US that are covered what happens if you lose your job and then have no coverage?

Jayme
said
0 0

Pat in Ottawa
You really should not expect treatment right away.For that to happen there would have to be about 5 million surergons and hospitals would have to have 50 plus operating rooms.Yes the wait should be shorter 2 months at the most.

mary
said
0 0

As a Canadian, I find her comments offensive.
does she think that if she did not have money, that she would have obtained the same treatment in the U. S. that she did because she had $100,000
my mother has been in the hospital for a week, getting excellent care. If she was in the U.S., she would have spent her life savings already
Let us be grateful for what we have.

Paul, Ottawa
said
0 0

Canadians are fixated on a universal health care system which has become bloated and too costly. Maybe some alternative (a mix of public and private while respecting universality) would be beneficial to Canadians and the health care system as a whole. There's nothing wrong with choice.

D
said
0 0

I will bet that she is sitting on her duff and still accessing our health care system. I read that her tumor was not life threatening, but of course, needed treatment. Her lies offend me, she is somewhat of a narcissist and she should use our system to access mental health diagnosis. She should take the money she is paid to betray her country and get her health care in America. Ontario, deny her coverage. Do not continue to let her spit in the face of Tommy Douglas. Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, how much did she betray Canada for? Revenue Canada are you paying attention to Shona Holmes' tax returns?

Hobovilage Hornbeam from Mississauga Ontario
said
0 0

re: Weston Gwillimbury

they might have more people than us, but that also means they should have more hospitals and services. It's a ratio, so it shouldn't make a difference what the population is.

W. Lundy Toronto
said
0 0

I do think what this lady is doing because of her own situation does a great injustice to the medical services and Physicians in Canada ....Yes some people have delays but speaking for myself, my wife and 3 grown daughters and my extended family covering most of the time in our Medical care system in Canada and here in Ontario we have had nothing but great experiences with the medical system ...this includes Operations, recoveries from serious car accidents and cancer ..We have no complaints and I think its incumbent on the people in the US to get the "whole " picture before voting one way or the other based on this ladies obviously biased view!

Former American
said
0 0

Patients United Now is an American lobby group set up by the American private health community and represents,wealthy and elite Americans who care little for others but themselves...the Private care health industry in the US is in the top 5 of generating income..insurance companies,private hospitals ..lobbyists..etc...Money drives this campaign and public misconspection is the goal...Canada's system is not perfect..none are ..but it is amongst the best in the world...and is the envy of the majority of American citizens ..not just the 50 million who have no health care...if anything OBAMA does in his term..getting this bill thru will make him a great leader

Eugene
said
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There is no question that the Canadian Healthcare system has its flaws but what people fail to realize is that even the poorest and neediest of all can still gain access. Unfortunately, in the US there are tens of millions who cannot get treatment. Even those who are insured are not proactive and may be diagnosed too late.

Also, if one is blind in the USA they will think it is the best system in the world, given that they have the money. The US medicare system works just like everything else in America, money talks, people don't.

It's sad to see that so many americans believe their system to be superior to those of Sweden for example, where private and public systems work together. Sweden is considered to have the best healthcare system in the world. I believe President Obama is trying to emulate that. Too bad there are too many insurance/pharmaceutical lobbyists running against him.

Amanda H
said
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How much is she making off the ads? Obviously the health care system is not perfect, but honey, it sure is better than in the USA. Think about the millions of people that cannot even afford to see a doctor for a diagnosis - at least you have resources to pay for it. And with these ads, I bet you will make plenty to pay your bill.

joe harris
said
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we have a lot of holes in our system. we have the worst mri access in the western world. Munro's mom should have had her mri, us and surgery within one week to meet what is the standard of care in westernized countries. I am glad she is Ok.

Jay
said
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I have seen this add in question i think it crosses the line and does mislead to a point.Yes the canadian system is not perfect but the way this add is they make it sound is the system is awful and it does not work.The canadian women while i am glad she is alright how she bashed the system as she did that i have issues with.You have to wounder if she got paid $$$$$$.

Kris D.
said
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If we took a quarter of our population out of our system - like the US has - then perhaps are wait times would be shorter.

Also, she CHOSE to go the US, remortgage her home and pay the money to a private clinic. She should not be reimbursed by OHIP. Surely she has made enough money from the private healthcare lobby groups that created the ad.

Also, it's kind of funny that she states in Canada that "patients receive wonderful care in Ontario� but goes to the US and slams our system. Obviously she's in it for money.

What would be funny is if a counter ad came out showing her making those comments praising our system. It would destroy her credibility, if she even has any to begin with.

Dale
said
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She had to mortgage her house, I wonder how much she is getting paid for these ads (I suspect her mortgage will be paid off)

This In my opinion is not the standard in Canadian Health Care, but an exception. My daughter was diagnosed with Chiari I malformation and she had surgery within a month from the diagnosis (more like 2 -3 weeks)

Jay in Stoon
said
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It all comes down to this - why do you want a healthcare system to make a PROFIT on patients?

fed up canuck
said
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Can anyone say "Andy Warhol", she got her fifteen minutes of fame, deserved or otherwise. What makes anyone think there is not problems with healthcare? There is problems in any system, big or small.

This is called life, quit wanting to be molly coddled and tended to every time you whine. Bad things happen to good people for no apparent reason, suck it up buttercup! Oh and if she is suing for the costs of her treatment, I hope they deduct what she is getting paid to do these ads from the reward from the taxpayer. Yes it is sad that the treatment had to come from a outside source, but at least she was able to wrangle it. End of story! She got sick, she got better, done!!

Ryan in AB
said
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Canada becomes another pawn in the US battle between the Republicans & Democrats.

The thing I don't get is why Canadians still want to shift towards the US style of health care. This system is lower ranked in the world than Canada(& we're not doing great either) and it costs far more money to run.

I'm sorry this woman that she had difficulties with our system and we should use these types of events to improve not tear down our health care system. And many good examples of how to improve our system exist in Europe (not the US).

Pat in Ottawa
said
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I agree with Holmes, the Canadian Health Care system, especially here in Ontario, is really poor quality. The wait times are astronomical. Totally unacceptable. And it seems its getting worse instead of better. It took me in excess of two years from the time of reporting to my doctor that I was having trouble walking on my right foot to have it corrected with surgery. One year wait to meet with the surgeon and one year wait for the surgery. WHY??? No one should be expected to live with pain. No matter what it is. We pay dearly for our health care. We should be able to expect and receive treatment immediately when needed. This is not the first case I have heard of where a Canadian has had to go south to pay cash to receive treatment for something she already paid for here in Canada. I heard of a woman who had to deliver a baby in the states because we did not have room for her. Go figure!

Chris from Northern Ontario
said
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Just someone else who's not grateful for what they have! Take away her free health care, and watch her complain about how awful it is that she has to pay for everything.

Shawn in Montr�al
said
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I'm sure that she's been paid more than enough to cover her mortgage.

It was HER decision to seek treatment out of country so why should OHIP or anyone else but her be responsible.

meerkat
said
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there's more to this than what is printed...

how much was this woman compensated for this appearance and staunch support of private health care? i don't believe she did it "just to let everyone know".

personally, i have never had to wait for anything serious and i have found healthcare in my province (ontario) to be very good. access and all.

thankfully, i have never experienced any catastrophic health issue to really test the system. but i have faith, that if i do, the system will be there for me as it is and has been for many others.

Kevin in Alberta
said
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Health care in Canada or lack of health care in Canada is brutal. You have to wait for months if not years to get surgery. And if you need to go to the ER you could die waiting, it has happened. Also if you don't have a doctor good luck getting one in some places, if you don't live near a big city you don't get the same care. I guess Mr. Ujjal Dosanjh must live near a big city and thinks Canada's heath care is fine. Everyone knows if you really need life saving treatment you go to the USA. That is until Mr. Obama changes everything there in his mission to bankrupt the US.

Matt
said
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I disagree with Ujjal Dosanjh.
We should let the extremes identify some of the problems.

Most Canadians and most Americans are relatively healthy. Most of us are fortunate enough to spend the vast majority of our life healthy with only minor injuries.

It's only when we suffer a catastrophic injury or a serious disease that we have a problem.

This is when Canadians and Americans without sufficient insurance go broke paying for the drugs or treatment. Or the access issues in Canada cause suffering and even risk death.

Look at the cost for an ER visit for services in the US. It's only several hundred to a few thousand for broken arms, legs, cuts to the tendons etc.

It's the BIG things that aren't that likely to happen that are the problem.

Brad
said
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My father in law died waiting for treatment of an aneurism that could have been dealt with if he didn't have to wait to be treated.

Merry
said
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What everyone seems to fail to realize is that this same situation - needing to wait months for referrals or treatment - happens in the US everyday to people who pay for their insurance. It's not something that is unique to universal health care.

Of course, those opposed to making health care universally available in the US (which isn't the same as universal health care) will never admit this. That would be asking them to use facts, rather than scare tactics.

Chris (Northern Ontario)
said
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Since we started paying a health care tax in Ontario quite a few years ago the health care system has gotten drastically worse. Where is all the money going?. As a frontline health care worker it's sad to see the state of our entire health care system.

Shannon Bartlett
said
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Holmes is one of many who know that proper health care south of the border is more timely. My husband had to wait six weeks for chemo on his terminal cancer. While he was lying in a major Edmonton hospital, I had to seek out the nurses every four hours to administer his pain medication, empty and clean his kidney bowls myself and virtually stayed with him full-time. The care there was very poor. I do still wonder if the medical community really made much effort to take better care of this man.

Doug BC
said
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And now she wants the same system she is trashing to pay her bill? I am glad she survived. Those of us who don't have $100,000 are very thankful we live in Canada.

Munro - Brampton
said
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In April my mom had a TIA (minor stroke) and next followed many tests (MRI, ultra sound). On May 15th. she had surgery to clear out her left carotid artery. This was done at the Trillium health centre in Mississauga. She is doing well and this saved her life. I guess I made my point :)

bella
said
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If Ms.Holmes doesn't like the health care in Canada she should move to the US permanently. I've seen these ads and i find them, as a Canadian, disparaging.

Weston Gwillimbury from Bradford, Ontario
said
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We have 30 million Canadians. They have 300 million Americans. They have 50 million Americans without insurance. That's more than our entire population. It just won't work south of the border.

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