A survey conducted by the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) shows reducing wait times for medical procedures and investing in new facilities are the most important ways to improve health care in Grey Bruce.
The OMA is an organization which represents the political, clinical and economic interests of Ontario physicians.
A release notes, as part of the OMA consultations, people were asked to identify their top priority for improving local health care outside of addressing the ongoing pandemic. About 25 per cent of the 274 residents who responded, identified reducing wait times.
In a follow up question, residents were asked about the single most important thing which can be done to improve health-care services in the community right now. Over a third said they would like to see investments in new hospitals, clinics and medical facilities to improve access. While another third identified making it easier to get an appointment with their doctor.
Chair of the local OMA district Dr. David Schieck, says the findings are incredibly important in helping the OMA develop a plan to improve health care and create a more integrated and sustainable system for all Ontarians.
“This is a huge province and health-care priorities here can be very different from those in other regions like Toronto. By completing this public survey, you help make the voice of the Grey-Bruce area heard,” says Schieck.
Over 50 per cent of respondents identified their views the way local health care is delivered has worsened due to the pandemic. Almost half of those who responded says the government should give improving health care in the community the same priority as the pandemic economic recovery.
The survey conducted in Grey Bruce is part of a larger consultation involving more than 7,400 residents from over 600 communities across Ontario.
Based on the consultation process, the OMA aims to release its plans to improve health care this fall.
The OMA says residents are still able to make their voice heard by taking part in the survey on the Better Health Care website.