But there are still other health asks the NDP has been campaigning for, said health critic Don Davies.
One of those is a national school nutrition program — an area of common interest for both parties, Davies said, particularly due to an “astronomical increase in food prices.”
The federal New Democrats have raised concerns about the practices of private virtual care providers. They have pointed specifically to Maple, Canada’s largest virtual health app. NDP MP Don Davies tabled a motion in the House of Commons last month calling for Ottawa to close loopholes that allow for the growth of “two-tier health care” in Canada.
“Ontario has insured virtual visits under [the Ontario Health Insurance Plan], but Maple has found a way around the province’s rules by connecting patients with a nurse practitioner or physician outside of the province. This is another gaping loophole,” Mr. Davies said in the Commons on Feb. 16.
“Speed is of the essence,” NDP MP Don Davies said Friday. “Seconds, minutes, hours make a difference.”
Canadians cherish public health care. It’s part of our national identity; a social contract that ensures we’ll be cared for when we’re vulnerable, regardless of the size of our bank account.
It’s an affirmation of our collective commitment to equality and justice.
But our health care system is in crisis.
Seniors Minister Kamal Khera says the new standards for long-term care can make a big difference to seniors and others living in care homes. Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos says they will factor in to conversations with the provinces about new funding. And NDP health critic Don Davies says the standards must be written into federal legislation.
NDP MP Don Davies, the health critic for his party, said these new standards must provide the foundation for that promised legislation.
“If it’s going to be safe, then those standards have to be in the legislation,” Davies said outside of the House of Commons Tuesday.