Calvert outlines priorities for health system renewal

Provincial and federal governments must forge a new partnership to improve the quality and accessibility of health services and make the system more accountable to citizens, Premier Lorne Calvert said Wednesday.

"In the coming weeks, Canada's First Ministers have an historic opportunity to shape and strengthen Canada's health care system for the 21st Century. It is an opportunity that must not be missed. First Ministers must respond to both the needs of the health care system and the expectations of Canadians in this important work.''

Calvert made the comments in preparation for this week's Premiers' Conference, where provincial and territorial leaders will be discussing common approaches to health system reforms. The meeting will be followed by a First Ministers' Conference on health care renewal on Feb. 4-5.

The provincial government is looking for four key outcomes from these meetings, Calvert said.

"First, we must collectively reaffirm our commitment to the values of our national Medicare system and its five principles.

"Second, we must have a meaningful federal investment in health care. The fact of the matter is, Ottawa's present contribution to financing the health care system -- Canadians' No. 1 priority – is insufficient.

"Third, the federal government's increased contributions must, to a significant degree, be an investment in change. I strongly support the agenda outlined by Commissioner Romanow – primary health care reform, home care, catastrophic drug coverage, medical equipment and technology, and rural and remote health services.

"Finally, we must agree on new approaches that will ensure the health system is accountable to Canadians. Citizens need to know that funds committed for health are being spent on improving the health system. Governments must be accountable to the public for the dollars being spent and for the results that are achieved.''

Calvert said he is encouraged by recent statements indicating the federal government is prepared to boost health spending to support several priority areas identified in the Romanow report. The premier was confident that provincial and federal governments will resolve differences on health care funding issues and dedicate their efforts to providing better health care for Canadians.

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Rob Cunningham Media Services Regina Cell: (306)539-1126