Almost half of Gen Z Canadians support paying for healthcare

A new study shows a majority of younger Canadians are open to pay-for-service healthcare.

A new report shows that more than 40 per cent of young Canadians support paying for healthcare services.

An interesting survey result as the young adults CityNews spoke with at the University of Alberta say it’s a hot button issue for them.

“That’s a bit surprising to me. I though it would have expected it to be the opposite to be honest,” said one U of A student.

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One University of Alberta student say healthcare is on his mind when he goes to the polls.

“Especially since the last election. I’m definitely more of a publicly funded access for all kind of person. So it’s a bit of a hot issue I guess.”

Other’s on campus say they haven’t made up their minds but do have their issues with the healthcare system.

“I think accessibility is pretty important — especially for students.”

The study from Crestview Strategy finds that 70 per cent of Gen Z Canadians are unopposed to paying for healthcare — while 43 per cent are in favour of it. 

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Researchers say it comes down to an age divide and a general disastisfaction with healthcare across the provinces.

“The generational differences in terms of what they’ve experienced, the things they’re used to: communication, ease of access. This is a generation that’s grown up with Uber, Airbnb, and Amazon — they’re used to getting things quickly,” explained Dr. Alexandre Santelli, VP of Crestview Strategy.

While the debate around healthcare continues in Alberta and throughout Canada — the same report finding only 23 per cent of Albertans support the idea while 49 per cent are opposed.