Healthcare Policy

Healthcare Policy 21(3) May 2026 : 43-46.doi:10.12927/hcpol.2026.27837
Discussion and Debate

Commentary: Improving Access to Surgical Care in Canadian Health Systems: Technology or Culture?

David R. Urbach

Abstract

The most serious threats to Canadian medicare have arisen because of public concern over wait times for elective orthopaedic surgery. Various system factors result in long surgical wait times, but a fundamental cause is the lack of coordination of surgeons' independent practices. While most efforts to address wait times to date have focused on technological solutions, cultural changes in the model of surgical practice have the potential to enhance access to surgery and improve the professional work environment of Canadian surgeons.

 

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