Silver Tsunami on Its Way?
The National Post reviews the results of a recent poll that reveals Canadians fear our health-care system may not be able to handle the growing strain owing to the impact of aging baby boomers predicted to live longer than the previous generation.
Reportedly, there was broad agreement among Canadians that “urgent changes” need to be made so the system can provide today’s level of care to the baby boomers. The feeling of urgency appears to be stemming from the fact that by 2036 Canada will have double the number of seniors it has now.
The poll apparently indicated that few Canadians are prepared to fund this wanted change. Less than 25% said they are willing to pay more in taxes to ensure adequate health services for baby boomers as they age. Even fewer are willing to sacrifice health promotion programs. The majority prefer special temporary user fees for those who need services as a way to deal with the increased demand.
The Canadian Medical Association has apparently been pushing the idea of getting a national debate going on what kind of health-care system Canadians want, and how they want to pay for it. This would seem to accord with public sentiment, as the poll found that (contrary to Stephen Harper’s view) health care outranks the economy as the issue that should get the most attention from leaders.
Have a good day,
Natalia R. Angelini - Click here for more information on Natalia Angelini.
