Message from the Minister of Health and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health on Canadian Intensive Care Week - October 23-29, 2022
Statement
This Canadian Intensive Care Week, we would like to thank and recognize intensive care teams across the country for everything they do to help Canadians in critical moments.
Each year, over 100,000 Canadians receive life-saving care in intensive units. While facing unprecedented pressures and dealing with the impacts of COVID-19, health professionals in intensive care have contributed and continue to contribute immensely to the safety and well-being of their patients across the country and doing so with care and compassion.
Health care workers are the backbone of our health care system. We share the concerns raised by Canadians on the state of our health care system, including the challenges in emergency rooms and ICUs due to the shortage of health care workers. That is why we are working with provinces and territories and our health partners to support our health care workforce by identifying both immediate and longer-term solutions to address these significant challenges.
As part of our work to support health care professionals, in August 2022, we announced Dr. Leigh Chapman as the new Chief Nursing Officer for Canada. In this role, Dr. Chapman is playing a crucial role in stabilizing the nursing workforce while improving and shaping Canada's overall health policy.
To strengthen the health care workforce, we know it is also important to support the well-being of everyone who are on the frontlines. That is why, Budget 2021 provided $50 million over two years to help those experiencing, or at risk for PTSD and trauma due to the pandemic. If you are a health care professional who is struggling, or know someone who is, there are resources available, including a dedicated text line for frontline workers that provides immediate access to support through the Wellness Together Canada Portal.
On behalf of the Government of Canada, thank you for the critical care you provide to Canadians every day and the important role you play in our health and well-being.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, P.C., M.P.
Contacts
Marie-France Proulx
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos
Minister of Health
613-957-0200
Maja Staka
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
343-552-5568
Media Relations
Public Health Agency of Canada
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca