[Yuri]

The Canadian health care system is often referred to as "free' which is not quite accurate. While we never have to pay for essential medical services out of pocket, we all pay for it through our taxes. We all pay so that if I, my family, or my fellow citizen needs medical attention that it is available without first having to show your wallet. Restoring your physical health should not destroy your financial health. That makes it “socialized”medicine -a dirty word in some folks vocabulary, sending them screaming in terror. Social in the sense that we all give a little to benefit all. Every country has some socialized organizations which don't seem to strike fear in those that pay for their existence. Basic education, fire departments and the police are just a few examples where, whether we ever have need of their service, we pay for the benefit of all. Just try to imagine a society where if you aren't enrolled in a fire or police 'plan', they refuse to come to your home when in need. Is your health any less important?
As a proud citizen of my country, I don't wish to see any fellow citizen denied medical assistance because of their financial standing nor lose their life savings in the process. I know of no other people as proud of their country as Americans. It still baffles me as to how 'the home of the brave' can be so frightened of the word 'socialized' and allow each citizen to fend for themselves when most vulnerable.
Choice? We have freedom of choice of any doctor or facility we wish to use. If treatment is not available in Canada, medical treatment outside the country if often covered as well. Second, third, fourth opinion, not a problem.
I mean no disrespect to my American friends. ....after all, I married one, and as a landed immigrant, she too is automatically covered. Is the system perfect? Far from it. I know of no system which couldn't be improved, but I am grateful for what we do have.
This is one portion of my tax I have no problem paying...