Two-thirds of Canadians say their health system is in crisis, survey shows

A recent national poll found that 63% of Canadians view health care in their province as being in crisis, with a majority across party lines believing the system has deteriorated.

Two-thirds of Canadians say their health system is in a state of crisis, according to a July-August 2026 survey conducted by Abacus Data for the Canadian Health Coalition. The poll showed 63% describing provincial health care as a crisis and 55% believing it has declined in the past five years, a view shared by Conservative (58%), NDP (54%) and Liberal (49%) supporters. Respondents identified doctor and nurse shortages (31%) and prolonged wait times (28%) as the most pressing problems, followed by bureaucracy and resource shortfalls.

A recent Canadian Institute for Health one outlet's report revealed that 1.2 million emergency visits in 2024-25 involved patients leaving without a doctor assessment, and 180,000 people spent two days or more in emergency rooms before being admitted. While 20% think the system needs a complete rebuild, another 20% argue only minor tweaks are required, and 70% remain confident the system would help them in an unexpected medical situation.

Despite frustration, 85% still view universal, need-based health care as a core value, and only a small minority support expanding private insurance for medically necessary services. Abacus Data CEO David Coletto said Canadians want shorter waits, more staff and better access, but resist a model where income determines care speed.