Learn why private delivery of health care services is eroding our public health care system.
Privatization funnels public funding to private corporations, leading to for-profit clinics, outsourced medical services and a growing two-tier system where those who can pay receive access to care. The recent rise of private for-profit nursing agencies is one example.
Private agencies charge premiums that exceed the salaries of full-time nurses, diverting much-needed funds away from public investments in permanent staff.
Over-reliance on agencies can reduce incentives to hire, retain and properly compensate permanent nursing staff in the public system.
When agency nurses rotate in and out, patients don’t get the consistent team-based care that full-time staff can provide. Contract-based employment can create oversight gaps, where standards and accountability to patients and communities are less transparent.
Phase out private nursing agencies: use public funding towards hiring and retaining full-time publicly employed nurses rather than paying premium rates to agencies. Implement policies or legislation to cap agency spending and require transparent reporting of agency costs.
Improve working conditions: address the root causes of the staffing crisis - such as heavy workloads, mandatory overtime and unsafe workplaces - so nurses stay in the public sector.
Introducing retention, recruitment and return programs: federal and provincial governments should fund and support initiatives for retention, recruitment and return of the nursing workforce, including recommendations set out in Health Canada’s Nursing Retention Toolkit.
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.
Show your support for a strong public health system – write to the party leaders today and demand better health care for everyone.
Click below to record a video and share your thoughts on why strong public health care – and proper support for nurses – is essential.
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.
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.