TORONTO, March 26 /CNW/ - With the addition of 50 new Family Health Teams
(FHTs), dedicated funding to expand E-health, and the creation of 100
additional medical school spaces, Ontario's doctors say that patients will not
only have enhanced access to the health care services they need, but will also
benefit from improved patient safety.
"Ontario's doctors have been asking the government to invest in
collaborative care models including FHTs and we are very pleased that the
funding has been confirmed for this critical health service to finally move
ahead," said Dr. Ken Arnold, President of the Ontario Medical Association
(OMA). "The new FHTs will help physicians and the government reach our mutual
goal to find another 500,000 patients who currently don't have a doctor find
one."
Collaborative care models such as FHTs have demonstrated their ability to
provide quality and timely care to patients. In addition, FHTs have also
helped some 630,000 patients who didn't have a family physician, find one.
Ontario's doctors are encouraged that the government is investing
$2-billion into eHealth, which is playing an increasingly important role in
improving patient safety and efficiency of our health care system. Electronic
Medical Records (EMRs) have had a tremendous impact on patient safety,
continuity of care, and quality of care. To date, over 3,000 physicians have
made the transition to EMRs and by the end of 2009, over 4 million patients
will have an electronic health record.
"Recognizing the significance of the government's investment and the
importance of this initiative enhancing patient safety, we hope the government
will accelerate the expansion of Electronic Medical Records into physicians'
offices," Dr. Arnold said.
With the government's announcement to harmonize the provincial and
federal sales tax, the OMA will look closely to see how the new HST will
impact physicians.
For further information: OMA Media Relations, (416) 340-2862 or
1-800-268-7215 x2862
