HealthCareCAN is ready to get down to work with members of the new federal cabinet to support innovation and transformation in our nation’s health care system so that it can meet the growing and evolving needs of Canadians.
“It is unfortunate that the recent federal election failed to produce the in-depth policy discussions that Canadians deserve on the sustainability of our health care system,” said Paul-Émile Cloutier, President and CEO of HealthCareCAN. “By acting now, the federal government can still revitalize the system and support the health of Canadians.”
Hospitals and research institutions across the country continue to provide top-quality care even while struggling with sparse innovation funding, inadequate research investment and insufficient infrastructure funding support from the federal government. Despite these challenges, health remains a significant driver of Canada’s economy, generating more than 10% of the country’s GDP annually and supporting more than two million jobs, according to the Conference Board of Canada.
Building a sustainable future for Canada’s health system requires action now and HealthCareCAN recommends that the federal government:
- Allow hospitals and health organizations to compete directly for federal funding programs, such as green infrastructure and innovation (as recommended by the Standing Committee on Finace in 2018);
- Grow investments in science to cover the full cost of research and enable Canada’s research hospitals and health organizations to generate new insights, including the health impacts of climate change;
- Invest in digital health and data platforms in Canada’s research hospitals and health organizations to improve patient care and support climate mitigation efforts.
“The federal government has identified climate change as a key priority and hospital and health organizations must be made key partners in the sustainable development, green infrastructure and climate change agendas,” said Mr. Cloutier. “HealthCareCAN and our member institutions from across the Canada are eager to get to work with policy makers on building a strong and sustainable health system for all Canadians.”
HealthCareCAN is the national voice of healthcare organizations and hospitals across Canada. We foster informed and continuous, results-oriented discovery and innovation across the continuum of healthcare. We act with others to enhance the health of the people of Canada; to build the capability for high quality care; and to help ensure value for money in publicly financed, healthcare programs.
Media contact:
Steve Wharry
Director, Communications and Member Services
HealthCareCAN
SWharry@healthcarecan.ca
855-236-0213/613-241-8005 ext. 205 │ Cell: 613-761-8400