2018 Pre-Budget Submission
On August 3, the CAR submitted its brief to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance as part of its pre-budget consultation process. The report is intended to inform and influence the federal government as it prepares its budget and considers its spending priorities.
Read the CAR's 2018 Pre-Budget Submission
The Committee asked which federal measures will help foster the growth of the Canadian economy. Investment in the healthcare system is a key component of increasing productivity. Maintaining a healthy work force and investing in innovative technologies are necessitates for a resilient healthcare system that meets the needs of Canadians, which makes healthcare an essential component of lasting economic growth.
The CAR recommends:
- Invest $625 million over five years, as part of the federal transfer to the provinces, to ensure that available imaging equipment meets the quality standards that patients deserve inclusive of our seniors and indigenous communities
- Invest $3 million in 2019 for medical imaging equipment in Northern communities to help eradicate tuberculosis
- Invest $9 million over three years to fund projects to implement clinical decision support tools for imaging referrals
- Invest $10.5 million over three years through the Strategic Innovation Fund, sponsored by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada to begin establishing federal frameworks to regulate the implementation of AI tools in medicine and healthcare.
The Pre-Budget Submission is an example of the advocacy and government relations work that the CAR is conducting on behalf of our members.
Interested in meeting your MP?
The CAR will be offering support and materials for members who would like to contact their local Member of Parliament to increase awareness of these and other issues. For more information, please contact Natalie St-Pierre, Director, Marketing and Communications at nst-pierre@car.ca or 613-860-3111 ext. 240.