Poster Subject: Health Studies

Poster Title: Peering Behind the Curtain: Hidden Patient Costs in Canada’s “Free Healthcare”

Bio: Noah Williams (He/Him) is a Phase 1 Medical student studying at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, set to graduate with a Master of Science degree in Clinical Epidemiology (May 2025). He has a clinical research background in emergency medicine and public health, with an interest in healthcare access and cost-related barriers for emergency department visitors. Noah is committed to advancing patient care through evidence-based research and is excited to engage in future opportunities to impact healthcare access.

Abstract: For many years, there has been a popular saying that healthcare in Canada is free. Although the specifics of what “free” means in this context is not usually discussed, there is a general idea that people can receive care without having to pay any money. This may sound wonderful, but this is not the case in Canada. Out-of-Pocket costs are a component of many healthcare visits, and demographics such as age, location, socioeconomic status and more may only increase this burden on patients trying to access care in a "free" healthcare system. With a more comprehensive understanding of what Out-of-Pocket costs are and how demographics can influence these costs, we may be able to work towards a truly “free” healthcare system.

Corresponding Author's Email: nswilliams@mun.ca