I think the issue in Canada is inconsiatency due to various funding issues. i'm in British Columbia and don't have terrible stories, some people might. For me: Called for a dr. appointment got in next day, doctor ordered bloodwork, walked downstairs to the lab for blood draw, results available online in about 12 hours, followup from dr. next day. Seemed reasonable because I was not sick/feeling ill, was just a lymph node check. Same when I had cancer, once the diagnosis came back positive from a biopsy I was acheduled at admissions, they built a whole plan/tests/ body mask for radiation machine/ nutritionist, etc over 2 week course then into chemo and radiation. I haven't had emergency myself, but a family member did --was severe/life threatening and just went right in. Not having doctor practises open on some weekends does put a strain on emergency room or walk in clinics.