ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the development of health cooperatives and their significance in North America. With a long history of cooperatives, the United States witnessed the inception of the first health cooperative in Elk, Oklahoma, in 1929, crucial in promoting cooperative models nationwide. Dr Shadid Michael Abraham was instrumental in pioneering cooperative medicine and inspired the creation of other cooperatives, enhancing access to affordable healthcare in rural and underserved communities. Furthermore, the American Mission introduced the concept of health cooperatives to Serbia during WWI, influencing cooperative developments in the United States and leading to contemporary presence. In Canada, the health cooperative’s history dates back to 1944 when the first health cooperative, now known as Quebec Health Services, was founded in Quebec City. This cooperative, along with the CU&C Health Services Society established in British Columbia in 1946, played a significant role in shaping cooperative healthcare in the country. A case study of the Saskatchewan cooperative is presented, considering their early contributions and present activities.
