NEWS RELEASE
NURSE PRACTITIONERS’ ASSOCIATION OF ONTARIO
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The Nurse Practitioners’ Association of Ontario (NPAO) commends the recent announcement of a groundbreaking health care agreement between the federal and Ontario government. This landmark deal represents a significant step forward in strengthening Ontario's health care system and ensuring improved access to essential care for all Ontarians.
"Nurse practitioners are integral members of the healthcare workforce, and provide essential care for the well-being of individuals and families across the province,” said Dr. Michelle Acorn, CEO of NPAO. "We are pleased to see the federal and provincial governments working collaboratively to support nurse practitioners in addressing the pressing health care needs of Ontarians."
Under the terms of the agreement, the federal government has pledged a $3.1 billion investment to enhance health care services across Ontario. This funding will be directed towards various initiatives aimed at strengthening primary care. This includes expanding access to and the quantity of nurse practitioners, nurses, family physicians and personal support workers, and addressing critical gaps in mental health and substance abuse services, particularly in remote communities.
The agreement also expands healthcare education programs, particularly targeting Northern Ontario, while directing funds to modernize medical data collection and processes to enhance patient care province-wide.
“We are seeing growing needs across the province, and this is a good step towards addressing ongoing issues,” said Barbara Bailey, president of NPAO. "By prioritizing the recruitment and retention of health care professionals, expanding access to vital services, and embracing innovation, we can build a system that truly meets the diverse and real needs of our communities."
NPAO marks this momentous achievement and looks forward to continuing to work closely with government partners and communities in Ontario to ensure the successful implementation of this agreement and to advance the health and well-being of all Ontarians.
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