The Voice of Canada News:

Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, released the following statement welcoming the second report from the Premier’s Council on Improving Health Care and Ending Hallway Medicine:

“I am pleased and encouraged that many of the Council’s recommendations align with the important work the ministry is doing.

We are building an integrated health care system that puts patients at the centre of their care, supported by a robust team of providers. We recently received over 150 applications for Ontario Health Teams, including submissions from every region of the province. These teams will act as a community of providers that guide patients at every age and stage of their health care journey. They will improve access to services by leveraging the full power of secure digital tools, including online health records and virtual care options, and will modernize care across the full spectrum of providers.

We are also actively updating policies to introduce a greater variety of virtual care options. Using digital solutions as a key part of a digital-first health strategy, including developing tools like virtual visits, online access to health records and digital supports for integrated care. We are also developing health system metrics that align with key commitments, such as ending hallway health care, and a robust data and measurement framework for mental health and addictions.

We look forward to future recommendations and advice from the Council that support our long-term vision of a modern, sustainable and integrated health care system.”