Children’s Healthcare Canada is urging the federal government to take decisive action to address the ongoing crises in children’s healthcare and declare children’s health and well-being as a national priority.
In their latest report titled “Beyond Bandaids: Delivering Healthcare Fit for Kids,” the association calls for the establishment of a National Children’s Strategy and the appointment of a Chief Child Health Officer. This strategy would establish clear targets and timelines to improve children’s health outcomes, aligning Canada with other countries that consistently report better results for children’s health.
Emily Gruenwoldt, President & CEO of Children’s Healthcare Canada, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Health outcomes for children in Canada are worsening, year over year. We have a moral and financial imperative to take action to reverse this trend, for our kids, and for our collective future. This is our moment.”
The report provided by Children’s Healthcare Canada highlights the fragmented nature of Canada’s healthcare systems, which undermines the potential of the country’s youngest citizens and jeopardizes its future. To address these challenges, Children’s Healthcare Canada proposes a collaborative approach involving federal, provincial, and territorial governments, healthcare organizations, and advocates.
Ms. Gruenwoldt envisions a future where children’s healthcare systems are accessible, equitable, and purpose-built to meet the diverse needs of children, youth, and their families. Achieving this goal will require unprecedented cooperation and coordination across various sectors.
Additionally, Children’s Healthcare Canada recommends the creation of dedicated funding streams for provinces and territories to strengthen children’s health systems, including research initiatives. This proposal draws inspiration from the Aging with Dignity agreements signed by Ottawa with British Columbia and Saskatchewan in 2024.
By fostering strategic partnerships and fostering leadership for change, Canada can move beyond temporary fixes and implement sustainable solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of its youngest citizens.