New Documentary Explores Issues in Canada’s Healthcare and Immigration Policies

A recent documentary is questioning Canada’s reputation as a progressive example for the United States. Filmmakers traveled across the nation, speaking with over 4,500 Canadians about concerns such as healthcare, affordability, drug policy, immigration, crime, and government spending.

Healthcare Challenges Highlighted

The film titled Broken Country, directed by Canadian filmmaker Mira Metter and co-produced by her husband, Mike Werry, critically examines Canada’s societal changes over the past two decades. The filmmakers interviewed more than 70 policy experts for this project.

One story featured involves a man with a spinal injury who waited 15 hours to see a surgeon. According to the filmmakers, his doctor mentioned that surgery within one hour could have resulted in a full recovery. Now, three years later, he endures chronic pain, requires a walker, and was offered Medical Assistance in Dying while seeking treatment for his pain.

‘Broken Country’ highlights this case among others, showcasing instances where Canadians faced undue delays in medical care. Metter relates how the injured man received morphine while waiting over 15 hours before he saw a surgeon, leaving him with permanent spinal cord damage.

The BBC notes that since its legalization in 2016, Canada’s law on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) accounts for one in every 20 deaths in the country. A report from SecondStreet.org indicated over 23,000 Canadians died on medical waitlists in the past year.

Immigration and Drug Policy Strains

Metter points to immigration as another significant issue. She mentions a dramatic increase in temporary migrants, which has stressed resources. Over two years, Canada welcomed 2.3 million people, taxing cities like Toronto, which struggle to accommodate such numbers.

The documentary also discusses Canada’s drug epidemic. The country promotes safe injection sites, providing supervision and materials for drug consumption.

Struggles Across the Country

The film examines widespread hardship experienced by Canadians. Metter notes that regardless of political orientation, people nationwide face the same challenges, such as accessing healthcare, affording homes, and managing day-to-day expenses.

The documentary aims to present these pressing issues without political bias, focusing instead on individual stories and real experiences.

Broken Country will launch in limited theaters across Canada and the U.S. on September 18 with an Amazon Prime release set for October 26.