HOW MUCH MORE STRAiN CAN CANADA’S HEALTH CARE SECTOR TAKE?

Introduction: The so-called “fourth wave” of COVID- 19 is tearing its way through Canada. However, this new iteration of the pandemic is characterized by grief and stress rather than flu-like symptoms. Mental health issues that preceded the pandemic and were further exacerbated during the height of the pandemic highlight the shortcomings of accessible services across provinces. This report will use the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) as a case study to better understand the role of provincial mental health supports in tackling this crisis. It will examine the problems associated with the current mental healthcare system before examining those most affected by the issue and its implications for the future of care in the province. Context： That being said, rectifying the structural issues within the healthcare system will be in vain if there is a lack of professionals to meet demand. While mental health needs have become more pressing for Canadians, many have not been able to find support. Wait lists to enter counselling programs or to see a psychotherapist are commonplace (CIHI,2021). The requirement of their services also leads mental health professionals to become overwhelmed and burn out(Statistics Canada, 2021). The current system is far from efficient for the government. Canada is spending around 50 billion dollars per year for mental health illness and issues (CAMH, 2022). Such a figure comes as a result of the need for income supports, inadequate community care leading to critical care later on, and over 6 billion dollars in lost productivity. Clearly, a reformation of the system would be beneficial for all stakeholders involved ...

HOW MUCH MORE STRAiN CAN CANADA’S HEALTH CARE SECTOR TAKE_

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Author: Sahiba Khaira