Accessing timely, high-quality healthcare is a growing challenge for many Canadians, especially when it comes to spine-related conditions. Lengthy orthopedic surgeon wait times and limited access to specialized care leave many patients searching for alternative solutions. Unfortunately, even options for private spine surgery in Canada are somewhat limited.
This is why an increasing number of Canadians are traveling to the United States for private spine surgery. According to a recent Ipsos poll of Canadians, around 42% of respondents said they would travel to the US and pay more for routine healthcare if needed. In fact, even 38% of respondents said they’d do the same for emergency care. Both of these figures are an increase from 2023.
For many Canadians, waiting could mean the worsening of their condition and its associated symptoms. So, seeking treatment in the US has become an attractive option for non-routine care.
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The Three Largest Barriers to Quality Spine Care in Canada
In general, there are three major barriers to specialist care in Canada. This includes wait times, limited private healthcare options, and the overall value of traveling for care instead of seeking it at home.
Excessive Wait Times
While Canada offers a public healthcare system, it comes with significant challenges. Orthopedic surgeon wait times for consultations and surgeries are often several months long, especially for non-emergency spinal procedures. One study from the Fraser Institute found that wait times in Canada from getting referred to a specialist to receiving treatment ranged from 20 to 64 weeks depending on the province. For orthopedic surgery specifically, the median wait time was 48 weeks.
For patients suffering from chronic back pain or degenerative spinal conditions, these delays can drastically impact their quality of life. Unfortunately, the public system does not always prioritize procedures such as minimally invasive spine surgery, which could alleviate pain faster and with shorter recovery times.
The Appeal of Private Spine Surgery in the US
Patients unable to access care quickly through the Canadian system often explore private spine surgery in Canada, only to find limited facilities or specialists available. Even when private surgery is accessible, the cost and delays can still be significant. Many patients find that heading to the U.S. offers faster access to advanced techniques, such as minimally invasive spine surgery Canada patients often seek but struggle to find at home.
In Los Angeles, Dr. Saadat provides world-class care, including the latest surgical innovations. From discectomies and spinal fusion to motion-preserving procedures, U.S. surgeons frequently offer a wider range of services than those available within private back surgery Canada options. In fact, the facility used by Dr. Saadat at Cedars-Sinai has state-of-the-art surgical technology.
Cost vs. Quality: Private Surgery and the Value of US Care
While the cost for private spinal surgery in Canada may vary depending on the procedure, many Canadian patients find it more cost-effective to travel to the U.S. than to face extended delays at home. Some clinics, like ours, cater specifically to traveling or international patients, offering all-inclusive packages that include the surgery, follow-up care, and accommodation arrangements. For those suffering from chronic pain, the investment in fast, effective treatment can often be life-changing. While options for private spine surgery in Canada are improving, it may still be a long wait for care.
Schedule a Virtual Consultation With Dr. Ehsan Saadat
If you’re a Canadian patient exploring private spine surgery options, don’t wait for relief. Dr. Ehsan Saadat, a Board-certified, Harvard and Emory-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, offers world-class care tailored to your needs. As an Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and co-director of spine surgery at the Precision Ambulatory Surgery Center in Beverly Hills, Dr. Saadat has experience in motion-preserving disk replacement, minimally invasive decompression, and complex revision surgeries.
Dr. Saadat has earned top recognition from Cedars-Sinai for patient experience, placing him in the top 10% of physicians nationwide. His knowledge, combined with a patient-centered approach, ensures you’ll receive the highest standard of care. With virtual consultations available, you can conveniently discuss your treatment options and explore the benefits of advanced spine care without leaving home.
Don’t let long wait times in Canada delay your recovery—schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Saadat today and take the first step toward pain relief and renewed mobility.