"Despite media reports to the contrary, we do not believe that our health care system is in crisis. Canadians have much to be proud of," the group argues.

The network's views are outlined in full in a detailed brief to the national commission, headed by former Saskatchewan premier Roy Romanow.

"However, there are challenges, for example: the de-listing of services covered, increasing drug and technology costs, increased private spending and declining public funding, and the erosion of federal coordination. New service models are needed to address these challenges."

In response to these challenges, the network says a renewed vision of medicare must - "as a minimum" - include a publicly funded and non-profit administered health care system.

"It has been well documented that publicly administered health care is more efficient, cost-effective and equitable than a privately run system. Medicare is perceived as a pillar of Canada's health care system and as such should be maintained," the group says.

The network argues that a renewed vision of Medicare must include the following as a minimum:

Publicly funded and non-profit administered health care system: It has been well documented that publicly administered health care is more efficient, cost-effective and equitable than a privately run system. Medicare is perceived as a pillar of Canada's health care system and as such should be maintained.

Canada Health Act respected and expanded to include:

A national Pharmacare Program and mechanisms to manage equitable access to medical technologies and new techniques:

A national Homecare Program: Women are on the front lines of caregiving and receiving care, and home and community care policies and practices affect them in different ways than men. Caregiving has a greater impact on women's lives, and has been a significant contributing factor to economic inequality between men and women. As such, a national Homecare program would improve the living conditions for both the caregiver and recipient.

A National program on health promotion and disease prevention: Our current health care system is focused on treatment and intervention. This is very costly and inefficient. A National program would enhance research, capacity development and information dissemination on health promotion and disease prevention policies and programs in Canada.

Protection of our Health Systems in international trade agreements: The Federal Government should exclude health services from all international trade agreements.

A strong federal role in coordinating equitable access to health services. (9 July 2002)