Then why do countries with socialized medicine have longer life expectancies?
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The average Canadian born in 2009 can be expected to live 81.2 years. Five countries have higher life expectancies than Canada—83 years in Japan, 82.3 years in Switzerland, 82.1 years in Italy, 81.6 years in Australia, and 81.4 years in Sweden. The average American will live to be just over 78.
How does the life expectancy of Canadians rank among its peers in the OECD? Do Canadians live longer than citizens of other countries? What role does economic wealth play in life expectancy outcomes?
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In countries with socialized medicine waiting lists are for those who need elective surgery. When people have emergencies they are taken care of quickly. They have fewer emergencies because the government pays for regular health checkups.