Thanks for the perspective openwater 2010.  I'll add a bit of my own.  If anybody can say they had a "terrific" cancer experience, it's me--and, most of other guys I saw getting diagnosed and treated the same time as I did would agree.  I was impresssed at the incredible organization all along the way, the care and attention each of our psychological needs, as well.  Steps were well defined--much thanks to GPs who urge patients to get tested, to urologists who urge biopsies. Options explained. All done effectively, efficiently.

However...plaques and displays on the walls of Calgary's multi-million dollar prostate clinic indicate that governments--provincial and federal--had a limited role to play.  Two prostate cancer patients very convincingly and effectively canvassed their own: high level oil and gas execs, and basically said, "Pony up, you guys, some of you in this boardroom will be next." Cheque-books were quickly opened. THAT is why this clinic exists.