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Elaine Weidemann: Canada has much to teach U.S. about health care

Letter to the editor  —  7/04/2008 7:42 am

Dear Editor: The recent unexplained dismissal of two longtime doctors at Cambridge's only health clinic is evidence of what is negative (one of many things) in our present health care system. Fort Health Care, an HMO, has the power to simply "let go" of doctors who are respected and are providing commendable health care.

It seems a no-brainer to me that doctors -- who spend years in school, in internships and in practice -- are professional people who should have control over their practices, where they work, and their professional lives. To turn that power over to entities whose purpose is to make money is counterproductive for patients, doctors and the taxpayers, who pick up a share of the costs.

I have heard numerous anecdotal comments that downplay Canada's government-led health care system. Many of these are misleading and designed to paint a negative picture. The facts are:

1. Canada's doctors are in charge of their own practices. They cannot be "let go." The government pays them for their services at rates set annually by doctors and government officials working together.

2. When Canadian patients cross the border to use U.S. hospitals, the Canadian government pays for it at Canadian rates. Individuals who come here only pay the difference.

3. No one in Canada is without health care!

We can learn from the Canadian system, and design our own in a way that is less expensive and puts control back into the hands of the doctors themselves.

Elaine Weidemann

Madison

Letter to the editor  —  7/04/2008 7:42 am