In Edmonton we have excellent health care and oddly, two systems.
The UofA health group that also takes care of education and research,
and the Caritas Health group that owes it's beginning to the Catholic Church.
The differences in these two groups is remarkable. While the UofA health group
enjoys far greater resources their focus is somewhat diluted. Caritas patients
benefit from a different attitude and greater focus on their individual needs.
All other conditions being equal - the difference is the management.
More doctors in the Caritas example.
Hospitals are only a fraction of the health care system, however.
I know a physician who opted not to have an office or staff.
The money he saved allowed him to provide far superior care to his
few patients. I also note that many people prefer female doctors.
This is not because their fingers are smaller.
This appears to be a result of being motivated differently than many
of their male counterparts.
I am fortunate to have known a great many doctors who take their
obligation to society so very seriously. This obligation is what drives them
to do research, attend hopeless cases, do international aid work etc.etc.
This is why our healthcare system works.
If you want a system that exists as a profit centre. Our heathcare system
as we know it - will not work. This why the suits up in the big offices
have done so much damage in the last generation.
One last anecdote as evidence.
I see my doctor every three monthes or so. I know
that he knows me. I suggest you all do the same.
I see my dentist only when something hurts. This is stupid
But, it's all I can afford.
Which is better?