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Canada Healthcare System vs. The United States Healthcare Systems

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Neighboring countries, United States and Canada have close ties to one another, share the same language and have many of the same fundamental and religious beliefs. It is an interesting debt as to which provides a superior healthcare system. In order to better understand the strengths and weakness of the two systems, this paper will review four important structural and functional elements of each system. 1. Who receives healthcare coverage? 2. How is healthcare delivered? 3. How is healthcare paid for? 4. How is the payment system organized? An analysis of the US and Canada’s systems reveals advantages and drawbacks within each structure. While it is apparent that both countries could benefit from the adoption of portions of the …show more content…

Additional coverage may be offered for some specific groups such as children, senior citizens and those on social assistance. Each province/territory within Canada operates independently and offers varying levels of supplementary coverage. Services that are not covered under the universal system such as prescriptions, vision, dental and home care are covered mainly through private insurance policies purchased by individuals or employers. (Squires, 2010) How is health care delivered? Health care in the US is delivered through a compilation of care providers and settings. The Commonwealth Fund points out the dysfunction in the system stating; There is no single national entity or set of policies guiding the health care system; states divide their responsibilities among multiple agencies, while providers practicing in the same community and caring for the same patients often work independently from one another. (Shih, Davis, Schoenbaum, Gauthier, Nuzum, and McCarthy, 2008) Some hospitals have merged with other healthcare organizations in hopes of providing a more integrated delivery system. However, delivery in many organizations is still quite fragmented leaving many US citizens dissatisfied. According to a 2011 survey conducted by the Commonwealth Fund; More than seven of 10 adults believe the U.S. health system needs fundamental change or complete rebuilding. Most adults

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