In radiology—and I know the field very well, being a radiologist—to renew equipment in our clinics that dates back 30 years, we have to pay out $500,000 per machine. If physicians didn't have to pay tax, the savings would make it possible to acquire other equipment such as, for example, a mammogram machine, for the same investment, an increased benefit for our patients. It is time the federal government stopped taxing health care.
We urge the committee to recommend that health services not be taxed.
In conclusion, on behalf of the 67,000 members of the Canadian Medical Association and of our 31 million patients, I appreciate the opportunity of entering into a dialogue with members of the committee and look forward to your questions.