Canada needs more Federal leadership in healthcare

The Federal government appears to be closer to landing a deal with the provinces and territories on additional funding for healthcare.

While the tensions between the parties have come to the forefront in the past several weeks, it is very reasonable for Ottawa to push for evidence of value for money. The ultimate goal is to facilitate informed decisions by understanding where and how these funds are having positive impacts. In an exceptionally siloed industry, it would be a missed opportunity if these wins were not shared across jurisdictions - be they policy, process, technology or other.

The most important determinants of the overall health and wellbeing of Canadians are socioeconomic. A comprehensive focus on the social determinants of health is required, otherwise it will continue to be impossible to improve our provincial and territorial health systems. Additional funding and good data are excellent first steps. More Federal leadership in healthcare is needed for sustainable and meaningful change in Canadian healthcare.