Everything comes at a cost. Whether it is paid for up front or at the end, someone is paying for the things you use, buy or create in one way or another.

I say all of that because I just read about Donald Trump speaking to his fans about how Canadians travel to places like Kentucky to see U.S doctors because “socialism” doesn’t work. Once again, he makes little sense.

I spoke to a native Torontonian during an after party event here in Canada. I asked him what is the truth about the Canadian healthcare system. While there can be long waits to see physicians for certain procedures, no one has to pay out of pocket for any medical bills. None But, that does not mean it’s free. Again, nothing is truly free. The cost comes from their taxes.

They pay for their coverage up-front, unlike in the U.S. We pay an insurance company to provide certain coverage if we fall ill and need to see a medical professional. The goal of the insurance company is to maximize profits. If that means not paying out claims, so be it. That means the cost of medical coverage is transferred back to you, the patient.

When we pay for coverage, then over time, have to pay an increasing amount each year due to co-pays, co-insurance as well as paying for some of the costs of prescription drugs. These out of pocket expenses add up. I’d much rather pay a fee up front for the year and not have to worry again if I can afford to see a doctor and if it’s worth it.

I have been reading articles and seeing comments that speak about the corruption in the Canadian healthcare system. People do say that you might have to wait a long time for certain procedures and some do pay for them in the U.S.

There are a few out of pocket expenses, like for prescription refills over the phone and other things like missed appointments. In some provinces, private supplemental health coverage plans are available for those who desire private hospital rooms. There are private insurers but health coverage cannot be denied due to unpaid premiums and there are no lifetime limits or exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

I’ve also read that the Canadian healthcare system does not cover prescrition medication and dental.

It seems like there are trade-offs, and costs one way or another. Would I prefer a system where one pays up front and has to wait in line for certain things or be seen right away and go into debt or pay a lot out of pocket? Would I prefer to pay up front out of my taxes to see a doctor and not have to pay when I see them on multiple occasions or have to pay a premium to an insurance company who might make me pay for those visits because I have yet to meet my deductible?

I choose their system. The problem for me is that living anywhere in Canada is too damn cold! No thanks.

And no, Canada is not socialist. Not at all. If you want to see socialism at work, see Venezuela.

I feel we can do better in the U.S.

It may not happen any time soon because there is too much money floating around, but I see there is a better way.