Chris Alexander, I'm Sorry I Treated an Abused Refugee in My Hospital
Dear Minister Alexander,
I have a confession: Two weeks ago, I treated a refugee claimant. At the time I did not feel I had done anything wrong -- in fact I felt good about the care I provided. After hearing your recent interviews, however, I can't help but feel physically ill about the catastrophe I have created.
I had no idea that providing even basic health care to refugee claimants "is irresponsible as it makes Canada... a magnet for bogus asylum seekers" as you explained.
I had no idea how fragile our immigration system is and that it relied on me, a physician, to police it. I had no idea I could cripple the system by letting refugees into my clinic.
I am a proud Canadian. I vote, I pay my taxes and I do everything I can to support this great country. As a Canadian physician I am proud of the care I provide and I care deeply for my patients.
Therefore, Mr. Alexander, I turn to you for guidance on what to do the next time this patient comes to my clinic: a gay man who fled his country because it is a crime to be homosexual. This man was beaten and persecuted by his community and his family. He is not able to work in Canada because he can not acquire a work visa and instead volunteers with local charities. He contracted HIV, and without treatment he will die. I would very much like to help this gentleman, but I understand the sacrifice he must make to ensure that our refugee determination system does not implode.
Read more: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/dr-hasan-sheikh/refugee-healthcare_b_4951002.html?ncid=tweetlnkushpmg00000067
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