Health service use in the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority: variations across areas in relation to health and socioeconomic status.

The use of healthcare services in Winnipeg is examined to determine whether groups who appear to have a higher need for medical care actually get more care. Despite universal coverage, considerable variation in service use rates exists. Most of the basic healthcare services are provided in accordance with need as measured by premature mortality rates. Nevertheless, visits to specialist physicians, a variety of high profile procedures, and screening and preventative services appear not to be provided in accordance with need.