The Canadian medical system has faced significant challenges over the past decade, leading to a deterioration in service quality and accessibility. This decline can be attributed to several factors that have compounded over time, resulting in long wait times, shortages of healthcare professionals, and an overall strain on the system.

One of the primary issues has been the chronic underfunding of healthcare infrastructure and resources. Despite an aging population and increasing demand for medical services, government investments have not kept pace with the growing needs. This has led to:

• Overcrowded emergency rooms and extended wait times
• Shortage of hospital beds and medical equipment
• Insufficient funding for preventive care programs
  

Another significant factor contributing to the system’s decline has been the shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly family doctors and specialists. This shortage can be attributed to:

• Limited spots in medical schools and residency programs
• Burnout and early retirement of existing healthcare workers
• Emigration of Canadian-trained doctors to other countries with better working conditions
  

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these existing problems, creating a backlog of postponed surgeries and medical procedures. This has further strained the system, leading to even longer wait times for non-urgent but essential medical care. Additionally, the pandemic highlighted the need for better crisis preparedness and resource allocation in the healthcare sector.

As a result of these challenges, some Canadians are turning to medical tourism, particularly in Asian countries like South Korea, for their healthcare needs. This trend is driven by several factors:

• Shorter wait times for procedures and specialist consultations
• Advanced medical technologies and facilities in some Asian countries
• Often lower costs for certain procedures, even when factoring in travel expenses
• Opportunity to combine medical treatment with a vacation or cultural experience
  

Countries like South Korea have invested heavily in their medical infrastructure and have actively promoted medical tourism. They often offer packages that include travel, accommodation, and medical services, making the process more accessible and appealing to international patients. While this option provides a solution for some, it also highlights the pressing need for improvements in the Canadian healthcare system to better serve its population at home.