What is the main focus of the Canada Health Act?

The main focus of the Canada Health Act is the provision of universal health care. This legislation was established to ensure that all Canadian residents have access to medically necessary hospital and physician services without paying out-of-pocket fees at the point of care. The Act is built on key principles, including universality, accessibility, comprehensiveness, portability, and public administration, which collectively promote the idea that health care should be available to all citizens regardless of their income level or where they live in Canada.

The Canada Health Act requires provinces and territories to adhere to these principles to receive federal funding for health services. This foundational structure is crucial for maintaining a publicly funded health care system that is accessible to everyone, which aligns with the values of equity and social justice prevalent in Canadian society.