Access to care, explained.

Learn how we can improve access to care for all ages in Canada.

Why it matters

Canada’s public health care is founded on the principle that everyone deserves timely  high-quality care – no matter their income or where they live. Yet many Canadians still face barriers to care, from long wait times to sky-high prescription costs. Addressing these issues ensures that our health system remains truly universal and that no one is left behind.

Out-of-pocket expenses still exist

Despite our universal model, expenses like prescription drugs, mental health services and dental care can still burden families.

Geographic disparities persist

Rural and remote communities often lack adequate local facilities, leading to travel costs and delayed treatment.

Long wait lists for primary care

Too many Canadians do not have a primary care provider. With access to primary care, early symptoms of illness can be managed before they become dire.

Vulnerable populations left behind

Low-income Canadians, seniors and those living with disabilities face some of the greatest obstacles to getting timely and affordable care.

Key statistics

5.4 million

In 2023, 5.4 million (17%) Canadians age 18 and older said that they did not have access to a regular health care provider, according to CIHI.

34%

of people report being less able to afford prescription medication. Inflationary pressure is pushing prescription medications further out of reach.*

87%

of Canadians support implementing a national pharmacare program to provide equal access to essential prescription drugs for everyone in Canada.*

The solution

Invest in primary care

  • Create a federal Patient Safety Bill of Rights: the Bill would standardize nurse-patient ratios, regulatory limits on consecutive work hours for nurses and other initiatives to guarantee access to care across the country.

  • Establish a universal, comprehensive and single-payer pharmacare program with adequate funding. No one should be forced to choose between filling their prescriptions and feeding their family. Canada can do better.

  • Increase access to nurse practitioners and community care clinics. Nurse practitioners can help ease the primary care crisis and meet Canada’s evolving health care needs.

Are you ready to improve access to care for people of all ages?

Your voice is our strongest hope for meaningful investment in public health care, putting an end to privatization of our health care system. Complete the following steps below to pressure all political parties.

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Step one

Write a letter to the party leaders.

Show your support for a strong public health system – write to the party leaders today and demand better health care for everyone.

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Step two

Record a video.

Click below to record a video and share your thoughts on why strong public health care – and proper support for nurses – is essential.

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Step three

Share the campaign.

From shareable social media graphics to step-by-step local action guides, our toolkit has everything you need to amplify the call for stronger public health care in your own community.

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Step four

Make a plan to vote.

On election day, vote for a candidate who is committed to protecting and enhancing public health care in Canada. Visit Elections Canada to find your riding and make a plan to vote.

*According to a recent survey by Environics Research, commissioned by the CFNU.