CANADA HEALTH & SOCIAL SECURITY
Canada’s health care is a publicly funded system, set by the federal government, with a group of socialized insurance plans that provides coverage to all Canadian citizens. Universal coverage is given for medically necessary health care services provided on the basis of need, rather than ability to pay.
Nearly all citizens qualify for health coverage regardless of their medical history, personal background and standard of living. Each citizen is also provided medical treatment from primary care physicians, as well as to hospitals, dental surgery and additional medical services.
With regards to the health care systems, there are questions about delivering treatment efficiently and in a timely manner, as well as adopting a private system similar to the United States. There is also worry if the system is privatized, then it would only be the wealthy who would afford certain treatments
The federal government, the ten provinces, and the key territories have key roles to pay in the Health care system in Canada. With a health insurance program called ‘Medicare’ all residents of Canada have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital and physician services, on prepaid basis. Under the ‘Canada Health act’{CHA}, conditions are specified that must be satisfied by the provincial and the territorial health care insurance plan in order for them to qualify for the full share of federal cash contribution, available under Canada Health Transfer.
Primary Health care involves providing services, through teams of health professionals, to individuals, families and communities. It also involves in preventing health problems and ensuring better management and follow-up once a health problem has occurred.
The Government of Canada adapts its services and program, to serve better the needs of the Canadians.
Most people with a low income, and over 65 years of age qualify for the Old Age Security {OAS} pension, which must be applied for, as it is not done automatically. This is also based on income and marital status.
If the person is single and the annual income is less than $ 13,200{not counting OAS pension}, one may qualify for the GIS.
Canada has social security agreements with 46 countries. If you have lived or worked in another country, you or your family may be eligible for old age, retirement, disability or survivor benefits, from that country, from Canada or both.
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