How are healthcare services in Vancouver?

"Vancouver offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. These services include primary care, such as family doctors and walk-in clinics, as well as specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and mental health services. Vancouver also has a number of hospitals, including Vancouver General Hospital, St. Paul's Hospital, and BC Children's Hospital. In addition, Vancouver has a variety of community health centers, which provide services such as immunizations, health screenings, and health education. Vancouver also has a number of home care services, which provide medical and personal care to those who are unable to leave their homes. Finally, Vancouver has a number of pharmacies, which provide prescription medications and over-the-counter medications," commented one expat who made the move to Vancouver, Canada.

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"We're not permanent residents of Canada, but healthcare is available to us here in BC. We're in our early 60s. My husband works full-time and I'm in school full-time. We purchased a Canadian health insurance policy for $75 per month that covers everything medical. Supplemental dental and vision plans are also easily available. The problem here in BC, and all over Canada, is the lack of doctors. We don't have our own and none of the doctors in town are taking new patients. We have to go to the clinic to receive care, which involves arriving early, getting on the list and then coming back at the appointed time. It's a bit of a hassle but the care is available. For emergencies, we would go to the new hospital. Health care in Canada is not what people think it is. There are long wait times for tests, sometimes several months. The system isn't working well for serious health issues and those with private insurance feel that they are entitled to queue jump for faster testing. That's prohibited. As a result, there is a law suit headed to the Supreme Court. The federal government and BC argue that if the privately insured can get faster testing, the wealthy will have an advantage over the rest of Canadians. Those with private insurance argue that denying them faster testing violates their Constitutional right to life and liberty. It's a complicated situation. But for small medical problems like strep throat or a broken bone, the system is manageable. Not great, but same-day service here on Vancouver Island," remarked another expat in Canada.