Effects of Quebec Medicare on Physician Consultation for Selected Symptoms

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Abstract
In a survey in Montreal before and after the introduction of health insurance (Medicare), questions were asked about 14 common symptoms for which medical advice should probably be sought. The selected symptoms were generally more frequent in lower-income families. Though there was little overall change in the frequency of doctor visits, in 13 of the 14 selected symptoms a higher proportion of persons saw a doctor. Before Medicare those from higher-Income families more often consulted a doctor whereas afterward there was little difference for adults but in children some economic gradient remained.