Health services

Access to a wide range of health services is critical in preventing and treating illness and maintaining good health. Canada's health care system consists of interlocking provincial and territorial plans. Federal contributions to each plan are governed by the Canada Health Act.

This Act states that every Canadian is assured of comprehensive and universal medical services. Five ideals form the bedrock of Canada's health system: universality, accessibility, comprehensiveness, portability and public administration.

These goals are not always easy to achieve: someone living in northern British Columbia or in Nunavut may not have the same access to health care as a resident of a large city.

Though the health and life expectancy of Canadians have been improving, needs are changing and the health system is trying to adapt. In 2000/01, approximately 80% of Canadians aged 15 and over who received care in a hospital said they received very good or excellent care.

Ontario residents rated their hospital experience the lowest, with 77% stating their care was very good or excellent. By contrast, 87% of Newfoundlanders felt the same way.