Private care in China vs. waiting at home: how do wait times compare?

The Fraser Institute's 2025 survey reported a 28.6-week median total wait from GP referral to treatment in Canada. It also reported median waits of 8.8 weeks for CT and 18.1 weeks for MRI. Survey medians describe groups and are not a prediction for any individual patient.

Ask the provider whether it has reviewed your records, whether a suitable appointment is actually available, what further assessments may be needed, what the full clinical pathway involves, and how your Canadian doctors will receive the results. Include travel, insurance, translation and follow-up in your planning.

No. A timely appointment is useful only if the provider and proposed care are appropriate for your clinical needs. Do not travel without checking the records review, provider confirmation, risks, alternatives and follow-up plan with qualified clinicians.

Local care may be more suitable when your existing team advises against travel, your condition needs urgent local attention, or the available overseas service does not fit your needs. Discuss your options with your treating clinician.