British Columbia's health minister celebrating a judge's decision against a surgeon

British Columbia's health minister is celebrating a judge's decision against a surgeon advocating for the rights of patients to pay for private medical care.

Adrian Dix says it highlights the significant role of the public health-care system as a cornerstone of Canada's identity.

Doctor Brian Day challenged the province's Medicare Protection Act, which bans extra billing and private insurance for medically necessary procedures.

After a four year trial, a judge ruled that Day and other plaintiffs failed to show patients' rights are being infringed by the act, adding its focus is on equitable access, not ability to pay.