Timely access to health care has become a leading concern for many Canadians. At the center of the debate lies the more volatile issue of whether some diagnostic procedures and surgeries should be completed at private health care facilities rather than through the public system. This article provides review and discussion regarding the risks and benefits involved in the use of private health care options, in particular with respect to musculoskeletal illness/injury. The authors conclude that employers considering the use of privately funded options for employees should evaluate this decision carefully and contemplate seeking advice from legal and ethical experts prior to implementation.
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