Ottawa
Canada’s Supreme Court last week struck down a Quebec law banning private insurance for medical treatment. The ruling gives new momentum to a drive to legalize private clinics as an alternative to the government’s universal health-care system, which has been plagued by a shortage of doctors and long waits for surgery. “Patients die as a result of waiting lists,” Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin said. Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh said allowing some patients to get private care, either through insurance or direct payments, would undermine Canada’s commitment to providing equal treatment for all. “We need to strengthen the public health-care system,” Dosanjh said, “so there is no need for private health care.”
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
5 low ratings cartoons about the Late Show cancellationCartoons Artists take on early warning signs, the Gen Z stare, and more
-
Connie Francis: Superstar of the early 1960s pop sceneIn the Spotlight The 'Pretty Little Baby' and 'Stupid Cupid' singer has died aged 87
-
Crossword: July 26, 2025The Week's daily crossword puzzle
