On Doctors’ Day, let’s show appreciation for those who make our communities stronger and healthier

May 1, 2023

GUELPH — Ontario Greens leader and MPP for Guelph Mike Schreiner released the following statement to mark Doctors’ Day.

“Today, I am delighted to join the Ontario Medical Association in celebrating the incredible doctors across our province who work tirelessly to keep us healthy and safe.

The past several years have shown us just how much each and every one of us relies on their hard work, compassion and sacrifice.

Doctors’ Day was first recognized in Ontario in 2011. The date, May 1, was chosen to mark the birthday of Canada’s first female physician, Dr. Emily Stowe.

Today, I encourage everyone to attend a ceremony in their community and raise a flag for the doctors whose tireless commitment makes our communities stronger and healthier.

Unfortunately, Ontario is in the midst of a healthcare crisis.

Emergency room wait times are the highest they’ve been in 15 years. People are stuck on endless waiting lists for necessary surgeries.

These problems cannot be solved without meaningful investment in Ontario’s frontline healthcare workers. Ontario Greens are calling on the Ford government to:

• Commit to improving pay and working conditions for all healthcare workers;
• Provide guaranteed access to mental health services for everyone working in the healthcare system; and
• Immediately halt their plan to allow for-profit private clinics to carry out routine surgeries, which will take nurses and doctors away from the public system.

On behalf of Ontario Greens, I would like to extend our warmest thanks and gratitude to our many doctors, nurses and healthcare heroes.”

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