Content area
Full Text
One of the hottest issues in discussions of Canadas healthcare system is the private provision of services. But what exactly is private healthcare? This Commentary shows it varies in definition and extent across different provinces according to their legislation and regulations. Equipped with clarity on the term, critics or supporters can zero in on provincial examples to make their case.
The c.d. Howe institute's commitment to Quality, independence and Nonpartisanship
The C.D. Howe Institutes reputation for quality, integrity and nonpartisanship is its chief asset.
Its books, Commentaries and E-Briefs undergo a rigorous two-stage review by internal staff, and by outside academics and independent experts. The Institute publishes only studies that meet its standards for analytical soundness, factual accuracy and policy relevance. It subjects its review and publication process to an annual audit by external experts.
No C.D. Howe Institute publication or statement will endorse any political party, elected official or candidate for elected office. The Institute does not take corporate positions on policy matters.
As a registered Canadian charity, the C.D. Howe Institute accepts donations to further its mission from individuals, private and public organizations, and charitable foundations. It seeks support from diverse donors to ensure that no individual, organization, region or industry has or appears to have influence on its publications and activities. It accepts no donation that stipulates a predetermined result or otherwise compromises its review processes or inhibits the independence of its staff and authors. A comprehensive conflict-ofinterest policy, including disclosure in any written work, applies to its staff and its authors.
* The intense debate pitting private versus public healthcare in Canada needs a reality check. Private aspects of healthcare exist in different forms and to varying degrees across Canadian provinces, largely depending on their respective legislation and regulations.
* For healthcare professionals providing insured services, most bill through the public system, but not all. The current and future scope of their role is the pressing issue at hand.
* Health Canada has had success in eliminating extra billing and user fees under sections 18 and 19 of the Canada Health Act. However, provinces have considerable authority in determining key terms like "medically necessary" or "insured services" that are covered under the Act. The result has been a diversity of...