Socialized Medicine?

Call me stupid, but who is Michael Moore, what does it have to do with the subject here and I don't understand the "sicko" remark. But I want to. Please explain.

Thanks. I did a quick internet search, but just found out he was a comedian and wasn't interested in researching him further. I hoped you would explain your reference, as you have, so I could understand the comment. My 2 favourite comedians were Eddie Murphy and George Carlin. Saw both down in Toronto years ago. I've never gone in for the ones that do those 'nasty' or 'gimmick' routines, so I guess that's why I never ran across MM's work.

"Sicko" was documentary done by Michael Moore (www.michaelmoore.com) extolling the virtues of socialized medical care. He represented many countries, but blasted the US's health care system (rightly so, IMO).

Canada is fine! We have no troubles finding doctors or going to clinics or emergency rooms. They do triage at the emerg, of course, the most life threatening go first, NOT THE FIRST TO PAY! I am in Canada fella, so I know what it's like to live here. So you think it's okay to refuse treatment to someone because they haven't got enough money?

i'm talking about specialists and non-emergency surgeries.

Sure, you have to wait for non-emergency appts with specialists. But that's because it's non-life threatening. They are just busy with more urgent cases that are life threatening. Elective surgery, like a b00b-job are not covered, and those would be last for sure, because they have nothing to do with your health. If you have a 'real problem' you will never get frustrated with the wait to see a doctor and stop going. What, just stay sick, when it costs you nothing. I don't think so. The time will pass regardless, so may as well stay on the list. Impatience is NOT a virtue. If something is worth waiting for, you wait. Dr.s don't cut corners because of who signs their paycheques. They still get paid and it is a fair payment. And our way, they DO get paid. And none of them are allowed to gouge like they do in the US, making it only for the rich. I don't think I would like to be seen by a Dr. who's first concern is getting paid. I want a Dr. who cares about my health and making people better. Why would you waste time going to a Dr. in another city for a common cold that a Dr. can do NOTHING ABOUT? It is a virus. I would say that GB and the US are exact opposites when it comes to health care. Both are extremes at either end and therein lies the flaw. Canada, however, is in between. Maybe you should come and visit here sometime, you may be so impressed you might want to stay.

I'm glad that the system works for you. I'm sorry to hear about your situation, but it sounds like your socialized healthcare has done most that you have needed. If I thought that America could run the program, then I would be glad to participate in that program. I am not convinced that the American government can run such a large program. I also am not a believer in giving the government much power either. To each his own. I'm glad it works for you!

Quite honestly, I don't think I would trust YOUR gov't either. But who knows, maybe there will be change for good with Obama. I live in hope. Only time will tell. Yes, I feel very fortunate to live in Canada, that's for sure. I am very disappointed with the US government's choices on MANY issues. Mostly because of how it affects us here, since we seem to be such close friends we often mirror each other so much, as nations. My greatest fear is that Canada will continue to follow the US lead on too many key issues that make Canada, well, Canada. We have always been know to be a peace loving nation that takes care of it's own, but defends it's allies. I resent being dragged into some of Bush's war mongering efforts. I'm very glad he is out.

goldeneagle..... Here in Canada it sort of works like that, too, except of course you, the patient just show your "Health Card" and the gov't foots the bill, so you aren't worried about payment. But your Family Physician is supposed to screen people who want to clog up the Specialists, to make sure that they 'need' a Specialist and that type of specialist. Plus, to justify the cost of the Specialist. But even that is getting more lenient. Some specialists, you can just find and call up yourself and make an appt with. They can just call your Dr. and ask for copies of your medical records to see if a visit with them IS warranted. And Chiropractors, too. We used to have to get a "referral" from our Family physician, for it to be covered. But my husband's benefits package with his Union covers our visits there, up to a maximum of $500/yr each, without anyone referring us. Every Dr. you visit now, just sends copies of whatever they did to or for you back to them for a central database of all your medical treatments. Your family physician isn't always responsible for referring you any more. It reduces alot of red tape and is a definite improvement.

wow, I really couldn't have said it any better Annie. Listen to Annie, Becky, she knows stuff!