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. 2024 Feb;19(3):33-41.
doi: 10.12927/hcpol.2024.27283.

The Eye-Opening Truth About Private Surgical Facilities in Canada

Trafford R Crump  1 , Gunnar Siljedal  2 , Ezekiel Weis  3 , Alex Ragan  4 , Jason M Sutherland  5
Affiliations

The Eye-Opening Truth About Private Surgical Facilities in Canada

Trafford R Crump et al. Healthc Policy. 2024 Feb.

Abstract
in English, French

This paper examines the contentious issue of using contracted surgical facilities (CSFs) for scheduled eye surgeries within Canada's publicly funded healthcare system. Despite the debate over the use of CSFs, there is a stark lack of Canadian-focused empirical evidence to guide policy decisions. This paper uses the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's healthcare system performance conceptual model - access, quality and cost/expenditures - as a framework to explore the debates surrounding CSFs. It highlights the mixed evidence from international studies and proposes recommendations for policy makers to ensure equitable access, maintain high-quality care and achieve cost-effectiveness. The paper underscores the necessity for informed policy making supported by robust empirical research, stakeholder engagement and continuous policy evaluation to address the challenges posed by the integration of CSFs into Canada's healthcare landscape.

Ce document examine la question litigieuse de l'utilisation des établissements chirurgicaux sous contrat (ECC) pour des chirurgies oculaires planifiées au sein du système de santé public du Canada. Malgré le débat sur l'utilisation des ECC, il y a un manque flagrant de données sur le contexte canadien pour guider les décisions politiques. Ce document emploie le modèle conceptuel de performance de l'Organisation de coopération et de développement économiques – accès, qualité et coût/dépenses dans le système de santé – comme cadre pour explorer le débat entourant les ECC. Il met en évidence les preuves mitigées tirées d'études internationales et propose des recommandations aux décideurs pour assurer un accès équitable, maintenir des soins de haute qualité et atteindre la rentabilité. Le document souligne la nécessité d'élaborer des politiques éclairées appuyées par de solides recherches, par la mobilisation des intervenants et par une évaluation continue pour relever les défis posés par l'intégration des ECC dans le paysage des soins de santé au Canada.

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References

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