OTTAWA, Jan. 30, 2015 /CNW/ - Canada's premiers were right to call on the federal government today to collaborate in meeting the needs of an aging population, Dr. Chris Simpson, president of the Canadian Medical Association, says.
"Canada's premiers understand firsthand the consequences of declining federal transfers coupled with a doubling of the seniors population over the next 15 years," Dr. Simpson said in commenting on a special meeting of the Council of the Federation in Ottawa.
Changes in the Canada Health Transfer will mean the provinces and territories will face a $36-billion shortfall over the next decade.
Meanwhile, the CMA is seeking from all federal parties as they prepare for the election:
- Inclusion of a national seniors strategy in their election platforms.
- Commitment from the election victor to call a First Ministers conference within six months of being elected while engaging with key stakeholders.
- Ultimately, a national seniors strategy in place by October 2019.
"We echo the sentiment of the chair of the Council of the Federation and Premier of PEI, Robert Ghiz, who suggested that any federal politician would be unwise to ignore the needs of seniors and their families," Dr Simpson added.
The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is the national voice of Canadian physicians. Founded in 1867, the CMA is a voluntary professional organization representing more than 80,000 of Canada's physicians and comprising 12 provincial and territorial medical associations and 60 national medical organizations. CMA's mission is helping physicians care for patients. The CMA will be the leader in engaging and serving physicians and be the national voice for the highest standards for health and health care.
SOURCE Canadian Medical Association
Lucie Boileau, Senior Advisor Communications and Public Outreach, Canadian Medical Association, Email: [email protected], Tel: 613-731-8610 ext. 1266, Cell: 613-447-0866
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