Grateful Canuck

Today I am thankful for the Canadian health care system.

I know that it has its fair share of warts; we are all familiar with the dreaded long wait times in the Emergency Room. The time between family doctor check ups, and seeing a specialist is another period of waiting. And, as my surgeon said, waiting for test results is often the most difficult challenge we face.

Despite these problems, I can't help but be grateful for our medical system. Consider this: Between April 30 - June 3, 2015, I will have completed the following medical procedures:

Bone scan
Mammogram/Ultrasound
Blood work (2X)
MRI
Ultrasound (again!)
X-rays

Results for these tests will come dribbling in within a few days or a week afterward, often shared via telephone by my family doctor. In all, this testing period will have taken approximately 5 weeks. (The last test will be completed on June 3, 2015).

My perspective has been shaped by travel. If I were a Nicaraguan, I could go to the hospital and be diagnosed for free, but then have to pay for every bit of medicine and treatment for a cure. In Belize, treatment is covered by the government - but it is very basic, so complex health issues sometimes require travel to another country - likely Mexico. If I were Kenyan, I might live in an area without any infrastructure: no electricity, running water, or medical help. I would have to walk, and then travel by bus, to the nearest hospital. This journey could take days. Upon arrival, I would have to pay for my treatment, too.

But I am lucky enough to live in southern Ontario, and live within 15 - 20 minutes from doctors, hospitals and specialists.

And then I wonder: how much will these 5 weeks cost? I can't imagine having to pay out of pocket for these tests, or navigating the costs with an insurance company.

So while I wait, I am grateful that I have been able to walk into the various hospitals, clinics and labs to complete these procedures, all without spending a dime.

It's another blessing. I'll take it!