Since I was an adult, I have never had a family doctor, although I was on a waiting list for about 4 years.
I know I’m not the only one. Many Quebecers are in the same situation as me.
I have to wait until I find an outpatient place or go private, which is very expensive.
I don’t feel followed enough. For example, there are many routine tests that you have put off for a long time due to lack of consistent follow-up.
However, people who do not have a family doctor in Quebec pay the same taxes as others.
All taxpayers should be able to access the same services in the health network.
What if we paid less?
Year after year, I am proud to pay my taxes, to contribute to society.
But last week, when I needed to see a doctor, I realized I was paying for services I wasn’t using.
As a joke, I said the following to my friends: “I’m the only one in our gang who doesn’t have a family doctor, I should pay less in taxes!” Much to my surprise, my friends didn’t think it was crazy…
Compensation for lack of services
The idea is not that taxpayers pay their taxes in proportion to the government services they use.
For example, I consider it normal that even a person who does not own a car should pay for road maintenance and everything.
But regarding the availability of family doctors to the population, I believe that the inequality is so stark that tax deductions cannot be given to those who cannot access this service.
We deserve better.
