Many of the issues we learned about in this week’s lesson come down to a lack of publicly available funding and spending priorities for services not defined within the Canada Health Act (CHA) as essential.

Many of the issues we learned about in this week’s lesson come down to a lack of publicly available funding and spending priorities for services not defined within the Canada Health Act (CHA) as essential. Yet, arguably, services such as home care, prescription medications and mental health supports are pretty important for those who need them. Do you view such services as important or essential? Do you think that the Canada Health Act should be reopened and reconfigured, with such services identified as essential services? What would be the implications for society and for the economy? Why do you think Canada has not yet done this? If you don’t agree that the CHA should be revised, what other strategies could be employed to improve access to these services?

2. Why does the stigma of mental illness prevent individuals from seeking assistance and support? Do you think that mental health services in your community are adequate? Why or why not?