Ontario's Doctors Welcome Throne Speech to Create a Fairer and Healthier Ontario

TORONTO, July 3, 2014 /CNW/ - Today, departing Lieutenant-Governor David Onley read the Throne Speech outlining the Wynne government's agenda. The Throne Speech launches the 41^st session of the Legislature.

The speech reiterates the government's commitment to create a "fairer and healthier Ontario" by "transforming health care, placing the patient at the centre and making strategic investments in community care." Among other things, the government will expand home and community care and guarantee every Ontarian a primary care provider.

We strongly support the government's plans to expand the student nutrition program; creating opportunities for all students to participate in 60 minutes of physical activity each day; implementing a cycling strategy; and reinforcing these measures with cross-ministry initiatives.

During the election campaign, we called for a stronger focus not only on "health care" but also on wellness and health promotion. We look forward to working with the government on these important initiatives.

Further, we are pleased that the government emphasized the importance of partnerships. We agree with this and we are committed to breaking down barriers in the system and putting patients first by building stronger partnerships between physicians, government and other providers.

SOURCE: Ontario Medical Association

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