Prime Minister reaffirms commitment to reducing patient wait times

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Prime Minister reaffirms commitment to reducing patient wait times

February 21, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today reiterated the Government’s plan to negotiate a Patient Wait Times Guarantee with the provinces and in doing so commended the Quebec’s plan to ensure patients receive timely access to vital services.

Speaking of Quebec’s announcement that it will now provide public funds for private treatment, where needed, the Prime Minster noted, “We welcome this innovative approach as a starting point and it is our hope that the Government of Canada will be able to collaborate with all of its provincial and territorial government partners to develop a national Patient Wait Times Guarantee.”

Mirroring the Government of Canada’s approach, the Quebec proposal would allow those residents who cannot receive timely treatment in their own area to receive treatment in another jurisdiction or at a private clinic with costs being paid for by public insurance.

“Care must be there when Canadians need it – which is why a Patient’s Wait Times Guarantee will be one of the top priorities of this Government.”

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The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications
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