"ICU/MasterCard” are not words you hear in a Canadian hospital – or are they?

A surprise visit had me admitted to Whitehorse General Hospital's (WGH's) intensive care unit (ICU) in May.

I was placed on the list to be medevaced to Edmonton/Vancouver as the next available spot opened up.

This was delayed as more serious cases arose, and rightly so.

My case got further phone help from Vancouver. I was deemed able to stay in Whitehorse.

In the ICU, I was given oxygen and assisted breathing.

Seems the breathing machine was needed for another patient, and I would be brought a device from a local supplier in town.

This transaction was arranged by the attending doctor. The method of payment, over $2,500, was to be my MasterCard!

I was told I would be fully reimbursed. Being somewhat fuddled with the situation, I went ahead with the transaction.

Turns out the claim of "fully reimbursed” was actually none reimbursed.

My emails to the WGH board's Krista Prochazka and Kelly Steele have gone unanswered.

The local supply company, although very embarrassed, has passed the buck as well.

My stay in WGH was marked by this ongoing incident. The staff at the hospital were wonderful and caring, and I thank them.

I will keep writing, but do not have my fingers crossed.

David Rootham