Q. Are there any accurate figures as to how many Canadians come into the United States for medical service?

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Q. Are there any accurate figures as to how many Canadians come into the United States for medical service?

— Lorraine Vinson, Rome

A. Canadian citizens are not required to hold a visa to enter the U.S., so no government agency tracks Canadians entering the country for medical reasons, said Devon Herrick, a senior fellow with the Dallas-based National Center for Policy Analysis, which researches medical tourism. Richard Baker’s Timely Medical Alternatives, based in Vancouver, says his company annually helps 150,000 Canadians on medical waiting lists receive care in the U.S. “But lots of others come without the benefit of our help,” said Baker, who founded the company in 2003. “There are people who live near the border who come out on their own.”

Q. Can you tell me how to get a hold of Patty Duke? After watching “The Miracle Worker,” I consider that movie in my top five favorite movies.

— William T. Brandt,
Atlanta

A. The public is invited to contact Patty Duke and ask her questions via the Patty Duke Online Center for Mental Wellness site at www.pattyduke.net. On the home page, you can select “Ask Patty Duke,” which will send comments to the actress, born Anna Marie Duke. She was 16 when she won an Oscar for her portrayal of Helen Keller in “The Miracle Worker.”

Lori Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2022 or e-mail lori@fastcopy.biz (include name and city).