Since we're comparing anecdotes, friend #1 went to Thailand for eye surgery ($5k vs a gajillion dollars), friend #2 went to India for Lasik (sic?).
Yes, like all other systems, universal health care has problems. Canada definitely has a shortage of specialists in rural areas.
So what? The USA has plenty of shortages.
If you desire "honesty" in a policy debate, I encourage you to start with the widely published, thoroughly vetted, and oft cited comparative studies. If you're feeling very daring indeed, and want to learn something, you could start with google.
Yes, like all other systems, universal health care has problems. Canada definitely has a shortage of specialists in rural areas.
So what? The USA has plenty of shortages.
If you desire "honesty" in a policy debate, I encourage you to start with the widely published, thoroughly vetted, and oft cited comparative studies. If you're feeling very daring indeed, and want to learn something, you could start with google.
http://www.google.com/search?q=health+care+costs+per+capita
http://www.google.com/search?q=life+expectancy+by+country
TL;DR: Canadians spend 1/2 per person and live 2 years longer.