Earlier this year, Ontario Premier Doug Ford's government released a new three-step plan that will see some for-profit clinics and diagnostic centers conducting a range of surgeries (cataract, knee and hip replacement, etc.) and other medical procedures, such as MRI and CT scans. The objective is to reduce wait times as the aging population, emergency room and staffing crisis, and COVID-19 pandemic has created a backlog. If you haven't read about this in the news recently, I strongly encourage you to read the CBC, CTV, Global News, The Globe and the mail articles. Saskatchewan adopted a similar approach in 2016 for MRI scans where a patient (who is willing to pay) can go to a licensed private facility to book an appointment.

Based on your understanding, what are your thoughts on expanding the private market in health care? Do you think this will increase citizens' access to health care, reduce the waitlist, and ease pressure on the hospital system? Why or Why not?