The Canadian Medical System

Canada’s health care system (Medicare) provides universal and comprehensive access to insured medically-necessary services to Canadians anywhere in Canada. Having evolved since 1947, Medicare has become culturally and politically important to Canadians as a reflection of, and as a defining influence on, our national identity. Shared principles of equity, fairness and compassion are embodied in the health care system, and the services it provides are now regarded as a basic right.

The aim of the national health insurance program is to ensure that all the residents of Canada have reasonable access to medically-necessary insured services without direct charges. As costs rise and populations increase and age, both the federal and provincial governments are investigating possible reforms and future directions for the health care system.

Additional information
Health Canada