Consumer-driven health care

I am in favour of a publically-funded, government-operated health care system -- as are virtually all Canadians (it's a Canadian thing). However, the system as it exists now is not sustainable.

I would re-orient the system toward a consumer-driven health care system. A consumer-driven system would force health care providers to competitively meet the needs of health care consumers, or perish. This system does NOT contravene the Canada Health Act.

If the current system is perfect and operating at maximum efficiency then, in theory, nothing will change under a consumer-driven system. I suspect, however, that would not be the case.

The Consumer-Driven Health Care System recognition of a parallel Alternative Health Association; to certify or “list” Alternative health programs, services, practitioners, or commodities. public empowerment based upon direct funding of citizens (likely through a health card); Standard disease system [existing] citizen choice restricted to existing physician-directed options (aka Standard status quo); physicians bill publically-funded customer rather than government. The 3 points of this policy work together reflecting choice in health care and the exercise of consumer demand while at the same time maintaining the existing standard medical model. These points comprise the existing medico structure in totality. All other points constitute proposed changes.

The health consumer [card] would be fluffed up to the tune of $3000 / annually (and retroactive to birth or immigration). Unused balances are carried forward. The system would be publically operated much in the same manner as "welfare" does now.
* The $3000 is based upon existing expenditure and is revenue neutral.

I have made two representations. One to the Alberta Government and the other to the Green Party of Canada.

Here is reference to the GPC presentation.
And a more official, generic presentation.

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