Health Care

[rook]

I don't pretend to know the answers, but I do think the system is broken. Every year, its budget increases exceed government revenue increases. That is not sustainable and one day something will have to change. I've been blessed with good health thus far, so the system works for me.

I do not want anyone to be refused health care based on ability to pay, but one could argue we already have a two-tier system: public system up here, and the Mayo Clinic and others across the line, or in India, or in China, etc.

[coppertop]

There is always the opion of going out of the province for health care services for those who can afford it. That option has been there for years.

[cropduster]

Coppertop.....you got some better drugs than most?....maybe it`s your glasses?....Statements like not having underprivleged people getting the "best" healthcare indicate your condition to me!!If we`ve got the BEST why all the bitching here???A lot of the modern diagnostic machinery is on a quota(time allotment).It could be used more if you wanted to be taxed more OR if people wanted to pay for it privately.You should reassess your position!

[coppertop]

cropduster, I do not have a clue what in hell you are ranting about.
My opening comments were questioning why the repitition of tests are required within a very short time, when all it seems to be doing is delaying the diagnosis and possible treatment for the individual in question.

I have always said that if people wish to pay for enhanced services out of the province that should be their right, but I would never want to see those who cannot afford such things be given second class health care at home. Now, your comment about drugs is certainly not called for and it would be very enlightening if you could explain the intent behind the comment.

[cropduster]

You are right about one thing CP We DEFINETLY ARE NOT COMMUNICATING!!I am trying to talk about health care as the thread title states.You are trying to solve individual cases.I believe doctors are more qualified than most.Diagnostic machinery in this province is not being utilized to it`s fullest.It could be staffed and run 24/7.I don`t believe that schedule should be kept with taxpayers dollars.After the allowed QUOTA of time has been met why can`t people pay for private care???Some is going on but not to an extent that relieves the system crowding.

[coppertop]

'after the allowed quota of time has run out why can't people pay for health care'. This is fine to say, as long as those who cannot afford it are not forced to do without necessary care.
At thisd point, people who can afford to pay can obtain an MRI for $1000.00 vs waiting months for one within the health care system. I contend that if the 'fat' was trimmed from the system this would not be necessary. Duplication of testing, high costs of duplicate administration within health regions etc., could be trimmed and necessary testing could be provided within the system.

Thankfully the government is reviewing all boards and commissions including health regions to see if they are operating efficiently. Last week, during discussions on the budget the premier did say that he felt school and health boards should look for more efficiencies within their operating budgets. I only have to go to our local health centre to see evidence of top heavy administration, closed beds but more and more offices being built anywhere there is space.
A nice light dining room in long term care was moved into a dark corner without sky lights, etc., to make room for more offices for administration. When families of the patients questioned it they were told that more administration was necessary, and yet volunteers are expected to go to the centre at meal times to help feed the patients....vs having ample staff to do so. Do you think those frail elderly residents should have to PAY to have someone assist in feeding them, or should it be provided through the system by doing away with a few administration positions ?