I've heard that, but I think it only applies to people who want to get second opinions on life-threatening illnesses like cancer.

Some forms of cancer can be readily and quickly cured - for these there are no waiting lists. I waited a mere 3.5 hours from diagnosis (appendicitis) to surgery. It happened incredibly fast. If there was a waiting list, I wouldn't be here right now, I'd be dead.

I have to say that I am quite satisfied with the Canadian health care system. I particularly like the fact that the nurses (although skimping on the morphine) were polite and considerate. I didn't like the crowd of student nurses & doctors that visited however. They left a very distinctly unprofessional impression. But it lasted just a moment (an uncomfortable moment), and then they went away. And I am ok with that.