ADVOCACY
The federal government plays an important role in the health of Canadians. Although constitutional responsibility for funding and delivery of health care rests with the provinces and territories, the federal government has several responsibilities that impact health and social. Two important departments, Health Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada, have a direct impact on health and labour markets across Canada.
Recognizing the many challenges home and community care providers are facing during this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, the CHCA is working with our membership to engage the federal, provincial, and territorial governments on priority issues. We continue to identify challenges and opportunities that resonate across the country. Our policy team is collaborating with other national and regional organizations to create a strong advocacy agenda that will:
Through a targeted advocacy strategy, we are informing government decision-makers and impacting the dialogue on urgent priorities.
COVID-19 Advocacy UpdateStatus and actions (September 30, 2020)
Key Messages to the Federal GovernmentIssues and actions for home-based long-term Care
Targeted Recommendations for GovernmentLetter to the Prime Minister (April 17, 2020).
The systemic challenges of our current approach to long-term care have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has shone a light on the urgent need to re-evaluate the disproportionate number of seniors with a frailty who are admitted to long-term care facilities rather than receiving care at home. These pre-budget recommendations speak to the needs of today and the future based on the stark lessons learned from COVID-19. Collaborative action is required by all levels of government to build capacity in a currently underfunded and underdeveloped but vital part of our health care system.
With federal leadership, undertake a review of the existing 2016–17 federal, provincial, and territorial health accords targeting home and community care in light of COVID-19 and the importance of long-term care in the home setting. Accelerate transfer payments to expand and equip home care programs in anticipation of wave 2 of the global pandemic.
Expedite the development of continuing education standards for non-regulated workers and increase skills proficiency through education and practice standards.
Create national caregiver legislation that defines the essential role of caregivers in the health and social care system. This includes caregiver supports, rights, recognition and support for National Caregiver Day (first Tuesday in April) to increase awareness of Canadians providing care.
The CHCA conducted online surveys throughout January 2018, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, targeting home care service providers and carers. The objective of the surveys was to gain a better understanding of what is needed to make home care better for people living with dementia and support their caregivers who play such a vital role. This report summarizes the feedback from the surveys and has been used to inform the federal government in its advancement of Bill C-233, an Act respecting a national strategy for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Download the report
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