OTTAWA, Sept. 25, 2015 /CNW/ - The Québec Medical Association (QMA) and the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) congratulate the organizers of the first French-language leaders' debate for pushing federal leaders to formally address the issue of health care for the first time in the current election campaign.
The QMA and the CMA took due note of the opening discussions on controlling drug costs, increasing the availability of home care services, and improving health care for seniors. The issue of federal health transfers was raised but without getting to the heart of the problem, namely making optimal use of the money. A recent report from the Conference Board of Canada on the country's aging population recommends topping up federal health transfers with additional funding based on provincial demographics in order to improve health care for seniors in Canada.
"With a health care system that is no longer up to the task and an aging population, our political leaders must recognize the importance of implementing a national strategy for seniors as quickly as possible," said CMA president, Dr. Cindy Forbes. "An initiative like this would free up funds that can be strategically reinvested elsewhere in the system to ensure patients can get the care they need, when and where they need it, " added CMA board member Dr. Pierre Harvey.
The QMA and the CMA are continuing their non-partisan efforts to make seniors care a key issue in this election and to get all federal parties to include it in their platforms. A public roundtable will be held on October 6 in Quebec City to discuss the issue. The event is organized in conjunction with Réseau FADOQ, an organization of 400,000 members and 15,000 volunteers dedicated to quality of life for Quebec seniors.
"We encourage the public to share their concerns at this event and send a clear message to the candidates about the need for a national strategy on seniors. A concerted effort and the commitment of our political leaders are key to the success of this initiative," concluded QMA president, Dr. Yun Jen.
The QMA and the CMA reiterate their commitment to work with any party that makes health care for seniors a priority.
About the QMA
The Québec Medical Association is made up of close to 10,000 general practitioners, specialists, residents and medical students. Its mission is to bring together members of the Québec medical community in a context that promotes reflection and action in the best interests of the health of Quebecers.
About the CMA
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
Image with caption: "Canadian Medical Association (CMA) Logo (CNW Group/Canadian Medical Association)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150925_C4678_PHOTO_EN_506929.jpg
Image with caption: "Québec Medical Association (QMA) Logo (CNW Group/Canadian Medical Association)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150925_C4678_PHOTO_EN_506931.jpg
Canadian Medical Association, Email relationsmé[email protected], Cell : 613-266-6572, Phone: 613-731-8610, ext. 2261; Denise Pelletier, Communications Coordinator, Québec Medical Association, Phone: 514-866-0660, ext. 230, Toll free number: 1-800 363-3932, Email: [email protected]
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