In this week’s edition, we cover urgent pushes for programs to innovations and sobering reflections on systemic issues. The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, and it is important that we keep an eye on developments that can affect not only us but also our industries.
In a crucial move at the federal level, Health Minister Mark Holland is pressing the Senate to pass Bill C-64, the Pharmacare bill, without amendments. On September 18, Holland appealed to the the Senate Social Affairs, Science, and Technology Committee, emphasizing the bill's complexity and urgency. Stemming from the now-defunct supply-and-confidence deal between the Liberal government and the New Democratic Party, the bill is set for a third reading vote on October 10. If passed, Holland will enter negotiations with provinces and territories to provide coverage for diabetes and contraceptive medications.
In addition to this, the Council of Canadians submitted a briefing note to the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science andTechnology, detailing its three recommendations on Pharmacare. The council echoed Holland’s call to pass the bill without tweaks, citing the immediate need for timely rollout. Additionally, the council proposed to attach observations to affirm a public, single-payer, universal drug plan and guard against conflicts of interest throughout the policy-making process.
Meanwhile, Ontario is considering expanding pharmacists' duties to include more minor ailments, such as sore throat and shingles, additional vaccines, and some lab tests, according to Global News. While pharmacists support the change as a means to alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, doctors, represented by the Ontario Medical Association, express concerns about the impact on care quality arguing that doctors are better trained to handle complex conditions. At the same time, the Ontario Pharmacists Association dismisses safety concerns as the government considers adding more ailments to pharmacists' responsibilities.
A recent Blue Cross study has revealed interesting trends in Canadians' approach to health. While 72% of Canadians have attempted to improve their health over the past year, particularly among younger generations, nearly half, or 48%, are not seeking professional health support due to perceived barriers. This disconnect highlights a significant challenge in healthcare utilization. Across the country, provinces are addressing various healthcare issues with targeted initiatives. Newfoundland and Labrador has launched a website to support dementia patients and caregivers, backed by $3.5 million in annual funding. It provides resources on diagnosis, treatment options, and training for businesses to create more inclusive environments for those affected by dementia, addressing the needs of the province's aging population, which currently has about 10,000 diagnosed individuals.
Saskatchewan is set to introduce its first Interventional Tricuspid Valve Repair Program in 2025, investing $330,000 annually for specialized procedures at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon. Manitoba is improving access to primary care with its first Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic at Grace General Hospital. All of these in the hopes that this will help improve our healthcare system.
While these provincial initiatives aim to address current healthcare challenges, the medical community is also taking steps to rectify historical injustices. The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) drew praise after formally apologizing for its role in the historical and ongoing mistreatment of Indigenous Peoples, acknowledging systemic racism and substandard care. In an opinion piece, The Globe and Mail health columnist André Picard said the CMA's pledge to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities is the right way to pursue reconciliation, citing its ReconciliACTION plan to rebuild trust and improve healthcare.
The path forward requires a delicate balance of efficiency, quality of care, and equity. As our healthcare landscape continues to evolve rapidly, staying informed about these changes is crucial not only for healthcare professionals but for all Canadians and industries affected by health policy decisions.
Delphic Research's Executive Daily Briefing can be your tool to navigate these complex developments, ensuring that you are always ahead of the curve. Book a free consultation today!
