MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 12, 2014 /CNW/ - The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) is concerned with a continued lack of progress by the federal government to address priority health care issues. None of the issues flagged in the CFPC's recent Report Card on the Role of the Federal Government in Health Care were addressed in yesterday's federal budget.
"The CFPC has provided a clear set of indicators for the Government of Canada to re-assert its presence in health care," said CFPC President, Dr. Kathy Lawrence. "That not one of these indicators can be upgraded alarms the CFPC and family physicians across the country."
In November 2013, the CFPC released the Report Card on the Role of the Federal Government in Health Care and noted that out of 23 indicators across five areas, only one indicator scored a "green" (indicating positive progress and leadership to date): federal action on homelessness. The remaining indicators are yellow (some action, but lacking federal leadership) or red (no federal involvement).
"This budget represents a missed opportunity," said the CFPC Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Francine Lemire. "However, we are encouraged by Health Minister Ambrose's actions to listen to health care providers and our ideas to improve health care for everyone in Canada. The CFPC will continue to advocate on behalf of its members with the Minister and her staff."
"Canada has the resources and ability to have one of the top-performing health care systems in the world," said the CFPC's Director of Health Policy and Government Relations, Mr. Eric Mang. "While yesterday's budget does not take us in that direction, the CFPC will continue to work on behalf of Canada's family doctors and their patients for a patient-centred health care system that serves all in Canada."
The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) represents more than 30,000 members across the country. It is the professional organization responsible for establishing standards for the training, certification and lifelong education of family physicians. The College provides quality services and programs, supports family medicine teaching and research, and advocates on behalf of family physicians and the specialty of family medicine. The CFPC accredits postgraduate family medicine training in Canada's 17 medical schools.
SOURCE: College of Family Physicians of Canada
Contact:
Jayne Johnston
Communications Manager
College of Family Physicians of Canada
[email protected]
www.cfpc.ca
905-629-0900 ext 303
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