Ontario government needs to reset the health care agenda in throne speech

TORONTO, Sept. 12, 2016 /CNW/ - Ontario's doctors expect – and their patients need – the government to return health care to the top of its priority list with today's throne speech.

Proroguing the Ontario Legislature in order to deliver a throne speech has been described as an opportunity for the government to reset the path it is on. Ontario's doctors welcome a change from the government's current course, and expect that the reset will include: 

• An immediate stop to the underfunding of health care.
• Meaningful consultation with physicians and other health-care providers about the former Bill 210, and significant amendments to this flawed bill before it is reintroduced in the legislature.
• A commitment from government to cease unilateral implementation of an agenda in the absence of collaboration with physicians.

Ontarians have overwhelmingly expressed that they want and trust doctors to make decisions about the health-care system. The former Bill 210 is an example of how the current government is attempting to make significant changes to how care is planned and delivered in this province, without meaningful consideration being given to the input of Ontario's doctors.

Doctors have worked with governments in the past to develop solutions to meet the needs of patients and to improve the health system in this province.  

Today, we will give the government the opportunity to take-up a new course. Ontario's doctors look forward to the opportunity to engage with government about the needs and concerns of physicians and patients in Ontario.

The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) represents more than 42,000 physicians and medical students across the province. Ontario's doctors work closely with patients to encourage healthy living practices and illness prevention. In addition to delivering front-line services to patients, Ontario's doctors play a significant role in helping shape health care policy, as well as implementing initiatives that strengthen and enhance Ontario's health care system.

SOURCE Ontario Medical Association

Nadia Daniell-Colarossi, Manager Media Relations, Office: 416-340-2970 or 1-800-268-7215 ext. 2970, Mobile: [phone], Email: [email protected]