Myths and Facts

Myth: Privitization will improve access to healthcare

Fact: Privatization will create huge inequalities based on wealth rather than medical need. It will lead to a two-tier healthcare system, where the 1% receive faster and better care, while others face longer wait times or reduced access.

Myth: Privatization will reduce healthcare costs

Fact: The evidence suggests that private healthcare can actually increase costs. Private facilities would be able to up-sell and add additional unnecessary fees that a public system would prevent. One private lab charged 34% more per test than a public facility.

Myth: Privatization will increase quality of care

Fact: Quality of care is proven to decrease, often seeing an increase in mortality with private and for-profit facilities as the focus is on profit and revenue rather than patient care and well-being.

Myth: Privatization will decrease wait times

Fact: Privatization increases wait times as wealthier Ontarians can pay to skip the line and thus those who rely on the public healthcare system may experience wait times up to twice as long.

Myth: Privatization will enhance patient choice

Fact: Privatization can limit patient choice and prioritize profitability over patient care. Public healthcare ensures that everyone has access to necessary care, regardless of their ability to pay. Privatization may lead to selective treatment options available only to those who can afford them, restricting choice for many.

Myth: Privatization will alleviate the strain on the public system

Fact: Privatization may create a parallel system that draws resources away from the public sector.  With the launch of private facilities, it's shown to cause staffing shortages and further strain on the public system.