Thunder Bay – Palliative care improves the quality of life and comfort of seriously ill patients and their families. Some people experience more challenges than others when accessing palliative care, including people aged 85 and over, those with dementia, mental illness, intellectual or developmental disabilities, those from linguistic minority groups, those living in rural and remote areas, and those experiencing homelessness.
Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, on behalf of Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced $2.38 million in funding over four years to Lakehead University for their project: Improving Access and Facilitating Systems Change for Palliative Care Among Underserved Populations.
The project will provide a better understanding of the services received by under-served populations, in order to identify gaps and to overcome the unique barriers faced by vulnerable people.
In addition, the project intends to improve the experience of those receiving palliative care by developing meaningful resources for individuals, caregivers, and providers that are tailored to multiple underserved populations. The project will have guidance from advisory committees composed of persons with lived and living experience and organizations that represent them.
The Government of Canada’s Action Plan on Palliative Care continues to lay a better foundation for coordinated action on palliative and supportive care needs. This project is aligned with the Action Plan priorities which include improving access to palliative care for underserved populations; supporting health system quality by developing palliative care skills and supports for health care providers, families, caregivers, and communities; and enhancing data collection and research.
The Government of Canada continues to work with provinces and territories, organizations, people living with serious illness, caregivers, and communities to improve the quality and availability of palliative care for everyone in Canada, including those who are most vulnerable.
“Palliative care is a critical part of Canada’s health care system. As Canada’s population ages, it is imperative that we have a health care system that offers timely access to assure that everyone can receive high-quality palliative care. By supporting projects like this, we continue to strengthen Canada’s health systems and improve the quality of life for all people in Canada.” – Mark Holland, Minister of Health