Ok I promised myself I wouldn't be triggered, but I blame OVM
(free health care, I know what you meant (sarcasm) but I think most people believe it is)
This is the most accurate description I've seen on Canadian free health care, from Wikipedia
In 2009, the government funded about 70% of Canadians' healthcare costs. This is slightly below the OECD average of public health spending.
[29] This covered most hospital and physician cost while the dental and pharmaceutical costs were primarily paid for by individuals.
[29] Half of private health expenditure comes from private insurance and the remaining half is supplied by out-of-pocket payments. Under the terms of the
Canada Health Act, public funding is required to pay for medically necessary care, but only if it is delivered in hospitals or by physicians. There is considerable variation across the provinces/territories as to the extent to which such costs as out of hospital prescription medications, physical therapy, long-term care, dental care and
ambulance services are covered.
[30]
Translation: buy health insurance, don't make too much in Ontario or there's a surcharge on your income taxes, and if you are still sick when you are discharged from the hospital, jump in front of a bus to get back in or its on your dime.
Sorry people, I'm getting off EO and hitting the Blue Cross website until I feel better and can play nice again