LIBERALS RATIONING LIFE-SAVING CANCER TREATMENTS

QUEEN’S PARK – This morning Ontario PC Critic for Health, MPP Jeff Yurek (Elgin-Middlesex-London), questioned the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care on his underfunding of Allo Stem Cell Transplant treatment at Princess Margaret Hospital.  

The government’s underfunding of this service is having the greatest impact on patients in the Greater Toronto Area, and Princess Margaret Hospital is the only treating facility. 

“Allo Stem Cell Transplant is the only treatment for patients with acute leukemia, MDS and other life threatening diseases. The Princess Margaret Hospital is rejecting new patients requiring stem cell transplants because they’ve run out of money,” stated MPP Yurek.  “For new patients needing treatment, there is no viable option for transplants in the province. They must travel to another country.”

It is estimated that out-of-country care costs two to three times the amount it does in Ontario, raising questions as to why the Wynne Liberals are spending millions to send patients to American centres when they could be investing in Ontario’s health care system.  

“We have seen the rationing of care for mental health and dementia patients, and the rationing of care through the postponement or complete cancellation of knee and hip surgeries across the province. But to ration life-saving cancer treatment? Has the government’s mismanagement of health care reached a new low?” questioned MPP Yurek.  “I find it insulting to the people of Ontario that the Ministry of Health has money to run radio ads promoting how great they are, but not enough money for patients needing cancer treatment.”

“Ontarians expect life-saving treatments will be funded and available when needed. Unfortunately, we continue to see the Liberal government ration our health care services,” concluded MPP Yurek.