Book excerpt: Taylor gives a brief history, geared specifically to an American audience, of the evolution of the Canadian national health insurance system from the 1940s to the late 1980s. He describes the two Canadian programs -- hospital insurance and medical insurance -- and discusses the major changes in the programs since they were implemented. Originally published in 1990. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.