Canada's healthcare system thrives when every health professional works to their full potential within team-based models of care. However, the system faces critical challenges, particularly with six million Canadians lacking access to a regular family doctor. Health ministers and decision-makers must take bold action to reduce barriers and invest in solutions that make the healthcare system stronger and more sustainable. Supporting, retaining, and investing in healthcare workers is crucial to delivering quality care for Canadians.
Dr. Joss Reimer, President of the Canadian Medical Association, emphasizes the importance of healthcare workers, stating:
“People are the most important element of the health ecosystem. Supporting, retaining and investing in health care workers and helping them thrive at work is crucial to delivering quality care for Canadians.” – Dr. Joss Reimer, President, Canadian Medical Association
The healthcare system is fundamentally a human resources system. A healthy workforce is necessary to deliver a healthy system of care. Implementing team-based care as the main model of primary care across the country can significantly improve access and patient outcomes. Organizations representing nurses and physicians unanimously call for governments to support healthcare workers and keep them caring for patients.
Dr. Carrie Bernard, President of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, underscores the urgency of the situation:
“With six million Canadians lacking access to a regular family doctor, we are at a critical juncture for our health care system. We need bold action to reduce barriers and invest in solutions that make Canada’s health care system stronger and more sustainable.” – Dr. Carrie Bernard, President, College of Family Physicians of Canada
Time-consuming and repetitive administrative tasks hinder the efficiency of the healthcare system. Evolving technologies like artificial intelligence can streamline these tasks and enhance patient care. Furthermore, virtual care within the publicly funded system can improve access to healthcare services.
Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, President of the Canadian Nurses Association, highlights the importance of collaboration:
“Canada’s health system thrives when every health professional works to their full potential within team-based models of care. By working together collaboratively and optimizing skills and collaboration, we can ensure Canadians receive the care they need, when and where they need it.” – Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, President, Canadian Nurses Association
Connecting all points of care empowers patients with their health information and improves inter-connectiveness between providers. Accountability and transparency in the healthcare system are essential for Canadians to understand how their health dollars are being spent. Decision-makers must maintain open communication channels throughout the year to build collaborative relationships.
Linda Silas, President of the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions, reminds everyone of their shared responsibility:
“Canadians are counting on us to ensure they have the care they need. From the decision makers to the health care providers, we have a responsibility to work together to protect and enhance our public health care system.” – Linda Silas, President, Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions
