This decision is a signal to Canadians that the future of health and health care is not a priority. Nothing could be further from the truth. Public opinion polls consistently rank the future of health care in Canada as one of the most important public policy priorities,” said Mr. Glenn Brimacombe, HEAL Co-Chair. “What message is the federal government sending to Canadians about its commitment and role when it comes to health?”
The Health Council was originally created to monitor progress related to the 2003/2004 Health Accords. The role of the Council evolved to bring together representatives of the provinces and territories, the federal government and the public to share perspectives, lessons learned and leading practices to accelerate the pace of health innovation across Canada, improve access to quality health services, and monitor overall health system performance.
“The federal government’s leadership role when it comes to health is twofold – leading by example in its areas of authority and facilitating collaboration among the provinces and territories”, said Dr. Karen Cohen HEAL Co-Chair. “HEAL has long supported the key role of the federal government when it comes to the health of Canadians. Dismantling the Health Council of Canada does not enhance pan-Canadian collaboration.”
HEAL urges the federal government to reconsider its decision.
HEAL is a coalition of 40 national health and consumer associations and organizations dedicated to protecting and strengthening Canada’s health system. It represents more than half a million providers and consumers of health care. HEAL was formed in 1991 out of concern over the erosion of the federal government’s role in supporting a national health care system. For more information, please visit our web-site at www.healthactionlobby.ca.
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