The Government of Canada has entered two bilateral agreements with Quebec’s regional government, committing nearly C$3.7bn ($2.7bn) in federal funding to improve healthcare services in the province.
These agreements mark the first disbursement under the federal government’s ten-year commitment to inject a total of C$6.7bn into Quebec’s healthcare infrastructure.
The central government will initially provide C$2.5bn to support the province’s Department of Health and Social Services’ strategic plan for 2023-2027.
Quebec’s strategic plan includes 25 indicators and targets, which are detailed in the agreements.
The province has committed to maintaining transparency by making health outcomes publicly accessible, primarily through its online Dashboard.
This initiative will be augmented by a partnership with the Canadian Institute for Health Information to foster the development and dissemination of common health and social services indicators.
The plan outlines measures to reduce surgical and diagnostic backlogs, enhance care for individuals with rare or chronic conditions, and expand front-line clinics and professional staff.
It also includes the development of the Votre Santé platform, which aims to simplify appointment scheduling, as well as the introduction of a helicopter medical transport service.
In addition, the Canadian Government will contribute C$1.2bn to Quebec's five-year action plan aimed at helping individuals get access to healthcare closer to their homes.
This plan includes support for community groups and companies providing home care services, increased home care service hours, and free access to shingles vaccinations for seniors and their caregivers.
Canadian Mental Health and Addictions Minister and Associate Health Minister Ya'ara Saks said: “This agreement will strengthen the capacity of community organisations offering social services, increase mental health services related to homelessness and substance addiction, and increase the number of services for parents of children with disabilities or difficulties.
“Together, we must ensure that all Quebecers have access to the services they need when they need them.”
