In Canada, healthcare is provided through a publicly funded system known as the Canadian Health Care System or Medicare. Under this system, all Canadian citizens and permanent residents have access to essential medical services without direct charges at the point of care.
Canadian healthcare is primarily funded through taxes at both the federal and provincial/territorial levels. Each province and territory manages its own healthcare system, and there can be some variations in services offered from one region to another. However, the fundamental principles of universal coverage and access to medically necessary services are consistent across the country.
While essential medical services are covered by the publicly funded system, there are some services and treatments that may not be fully covered, such as prescription medications, dental care, and vision care. For these additional services, some Canadians may have private health insurance plans or employee benefits that help cover the costs.
It's worth noting that access to healthcare in Canada is based on need and not on an individual's ability to pay. This means that Canadians do not need to pay for private health insurance to access basic medical services. However, some individuals may choose to purchase private insurance for additional coverage or to supplement gaps in the publicly funded system.
Overall, the Canadian healthcare system is often viewed as one of the most comprehensive and equitable systems in the world, providing essential medical services to all citizens and permanent residents regardless of their income or social status.