Check against delivery
Thank you for that kind introduction.
I’m happy to be here today to talk about how our government is working to improve health care in communities across Canada.
It’s no secret that Canada has a shortage of family doctors and nurses, especially in small communities.
And small communities make up much of our country.
There are more than 4 200 rural and remote communities across Canada, with a combined population of about 9.45 million people.
That’s no small number.
Unfortunately, access to medical care tends to be further out of reach for small-town residents. People in small towns often tell me about the difficulties they have finding a doctor. And I also hear about the challenges that hospitals and health care facilities face recruiting doctors and nurses.
The fact is, small communities just don’t have the amenities and conveniences found in larger urban centres.
Persuading doctors and nurses to live and work in these communities can be a challenge.
Our government understands the health care challenges that face small town communities, and we’re working hard to address this important issue.
Last spring, we introduced Canada Student Loan forgiveness for family doctors and nurses who work in small communities.
This loan forgiveness also applies to residents in family medicine, nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals.
By offering Canada Student Loan forgiveness to family doctors and nurses, we are contributing to Canada’s long-term growth, competitiveness and overall prosperity.
In a few short months we’ve had a significant number of applicants.
Today, I am pleased to announce that since the launch of this initiative in April, over 1 150 family doctors and nurses have received Canada Student Loan forgiveness.
And this is good news for Canada, and especially for everyone living in rural and remote communities.
Family doctors and residents in family medicine can receive up to $8,000 per year in Canada Student Loan forgiveness, to a maximum of $40,000 over five years.
As for nurses and nurse practitioners, they may be eligible for forgiveness of $4,000 per year to a maximum of $20,000 over five years.
In addition to improving access to primary health care, this initiative is one of several measures to help post-secondary students pay for their education through loans, grants and repayment assistance.
For example, part-time students are no longer charged interest on their loans while they study.
For borrowers having difficulty making their loan payments, the Repayment Assistance Plan can help, by reducing or eliminating their monthly payment.
And earlier this year, we also adjusted the low- and middle-income thresholds. This change allows more students to qualify for Canada Student Grants and part-time loans and grants to pursue education and skills training.
Of course, we also provide Canada Student Grants. These grants are up-front, non-repayable financial assistance that help tens of thousands of students every year. This includes low- and middle-income students, students with permanent disabilities, and students with dependants.
The Government of Canada’s support for post-secondary education is helping Canadians get the right education, skills and training to find good jobs and contribute to our long-term growth and prosperity.
I have no doubt that Canada Student Loan forgiveness will help improve health care in rural communities and improve the health of many Canadians.
Small communities in Canada have a lot to offer.
So I encourage doctors and nurses to seize the opportunity and make a real difference in the lives of so many Canadians.
Thank you.
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