Healthcare in Ontario is crumbling but it's even worse in Northern Ontario and residents can't afford to wait for change any longer

Lisa Rene-de-Cotret December 28, 2024

The healthcare landscape in Northern Ontario is a stark reflection of the systemic neglect that has plagued rural and remote communities for far too long. As we exit 2024, the numbers tell a grim story: we are in dire need of physicians, with at least 200 of those positions earmarked for family doctors.
The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many patients are forced to travel hundreds of kilometres to access basic services such as specialist consultations or vital screenings like mammograms. This is not just inconvenient; it is a matter of life and death for many.
The Northern Ontario Travel Grant, designed to offset some of the burdens of these long journeys, has seen changes in reimbursement that could alleviate the financial burden of the travel inconvenience. While the intent behind this initiative is commendable, the reality is that it often falls short of providing adequate support.
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