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Defending Canadian Health Care

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 10, 2009

I have just finished reading a letter (Beware Socialized Care, Letters, March 9) regarding an opinion on our healthcare system in Canada, and I take offense. I am a Canadian, as is my husband, and we have had quality care by the Canadian health system for more than 60 years. Between us we have had an appendectomy, gall bladder surgery, achilles tendon repair, eye surgery, two knee replacements, bowel surgery with five days in intensive care, ankle surgery and numerous other ailments not requiring hospital care. All occasions were handled promptly and excellently.

Yes, for elective surgery, there would be a wait time. This is good. If it's elective, it's not an emergency. For all the above mentioned problems, as well as our regular family health care, we have not had to pay any extra for anything. It is covered by our health care system, which we have paid for over years of taxes. We have a good system, and it should be considered a model for the USA - not criticized by persons who do not know what they are talking about.

A few weeks ago we visited a local hospital here in Florida for shingles treatment, and after about five minutes of conversation with a very pleasant doctor, we had to pay more than $700, which we did but considered it a lesson: We could fly home to Canada for treatment next time for less.

KAREN PIPES

Hudson

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