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CANADA: Canadian natives concerned about new health care policy

Native leaders throughout the country have begun to voice concern over Health Canada’s proposed policy changes. Since 1900, Canadians descending from the aboriginal signers of Treaty Eight have received free healthcare from the federal government. Beginning in September, Health Canada’s new policy will require them to sign a consent form prior to receiving care. Natives fear that the government might force them into paying for services by making them sign the forms. Canadian officials are now reconsidering the form’s specifics.