Reply #7: Sometimes, but ANYBODY, even those on Welfare, will get treated.

[ConcernedCanuk]

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I am in the unfortunate position of not having a family doctor, which is not unusual up here.

So for things like muscle aches, tension, or other minor maladies I have to go to Emergency - it is a normal function for Emergency to take in people for non-emergency medical care.

However, if you are going in for migraine headaches, and there are people there with cuts, wounds, or severe depression issues, they will get seen before I do as we have a "triage" system, where people's ailments are prioritized.

Obviously someone with a finger half dangling off their hand will get treated before someone with migraine headaches.

BUT - we will all get taken care of. At no cost.

Scheduling for different tests and operations can take time, but all real EMERGENCY ailments are dealt with immediately.

Even in this small town of 2500 we have access to major hospitals close by, with numerous land ambulances as well as a heliport(for helicopters) to take us to a specialty hospital if need be.

Again, this is all available to even the poorest of Canadians, at no cost.

Our taxes pay for it - and many studies, polls, etc., have been done up here, and we would rather pay a bit more in taxes, and keep our Health Care free.

Yes, there may be a bit of a wait, but nothing outrageous.

Half an hour to 2 hours would be normal on a busy day - sometimes we get in right away.

It's worth it.