Hospital and doctor visits are free to Canadians and protected by federal legislation. But determined provincial governments could find ways to chip away at Canadian’s access to vital services.

New provincial legislation is needed to secure funding for healthcare services enshrined in the federal Canada Health Act.

In the United States, President Trump’s signature legislation reduces subsidies for states to provide health insurance to low-income Americans. According to the non-partisan U.S. Congressional Budget Office, over 10 million Americans are expected to lose their health insurance. Without health insurance, millions of Americans will lose their access to hospitals, doctors and drugs and pushed to emergency departments as their only source of healthcare.

Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia and Alberta governments each spent in excess of $30 billion on healthcare for their residents in 2024 according to the Canadian Institute for Health Information. This is a veritable pot of gold for governments looking to plug huge holes in budgets, especially in provinces especially hard hit by tariffs.

Like what is underway in the U.S., is it possible that a determined provincial government could start a war with its own publicly provided healthcare system in the name of fiscal restraint?
It could happen.

As Canadians are seeing in the U.S., the traditional way of doing things can be challenged and upend norms.

The federal Canada Health Act mandates that provinces are financially obligated to fund hospital care, physician services and advanced diagnostics. Importantly, however, the Act is vague regarding specifics. It does not specify the rate at which funding must be provided to hospitals, advanced imaging clinics or physicians to guarantee access to residents.

Provincial governments could dramatically cut funding to their health systems under this current federal legislation.

Massive funding to healthcare systems would target the most costly services first: hospitals, physicians and drugs. The impact could cause Canadians to have healthcare delayed, modified or even denied.
Hospitals unwilling to abandon their communities would prioritize life-saving care by reducing or eliminating less urgent or elective care. Some hospitals would likely need to close or merge to reduce capital expenses. Thousands of jobs would be lost. Similar to the U.S., emergency departments would fill up with non-emergency cases.

Cuts to physician payments would result in physicians moving into private practice or leaving Canada for greener pastures, re-igniting a brain drain of seasoned experts to more secure or more lucrative settings in unaffected provinces or other countries.

Given the vague language of the Canada Health Act regarding funding levels, the federal government would have few levers in response to breaches of the legislation. If the federal government were a willing corroborator in under-funding healthcare, provinces’ health systems would unravel even more quickly.

Seniors, the disabled and the working poor could find more drugs uninsured by government-funded programs and see deductibles rise.

Sure, provincial governments might topple for reshaping the health system landscape and reducing services Canadians have been getting for free. But before they topple, the changes they legislate might be hard to unwind, especially if their budget shortfall is real and significant.

So, what can be done to buttress core healthcare services for Canadians?

New provincial legislation to future-proof provincial governments’ obligation to pay fairly for healthcare services prescribed in the Canada Health Act is needed to further ensure the right of all Canadians to access hospitals and doctors without additional out-of-pocket costs.

Experts attribute part of Canadians’ longevity to access to free healthcare and less severe poverty among seniors. The risk of not taking strong steps to ensure access to healthcare could open the doors to healthcare systems that undermine our health and wellbeing.

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Written by:

Jason M. Sutherland is the UBC Professor of Health Services and Policy and Director of the Centre for Health Services and Policy Research in the School of Population and Public Health at the University of British Columbia.

The post Denying Canadians Access to Healthcare – It could happen here too appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called, and what does it do?

Our business is called Good Comfort Homecare, and we believe in delivering care the way it should be—rooted in comfort, dignity, and empowerment. Care that comes with peace of mind.

At Good Comfort, we do more than provide homecare—we are transforming it. As a one-stop care company, we simplify the complexities, alleviate the stress, and ease the worry that often accompanies caregiving. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our clients and their families through personalized, compassionate care.

From in-home support and accessible transportation to premium care products and wellness services, everything we offer is thoughtfully designed to address the unique needs of each client and their loved ones. What began as a small, dedicated team has flourished into a network of skilled PSWs, Nurses, Therapists, and Wellness Experts, proudly serving communities across Ontario—from the GTA to the Georgian Triangle.

Despite our growth, we remain deeply committed to our founding purpose: delivering innovative, individualized care that truly transforms lives. At Good Comfort, we aren’t just a care provider—we’re a trusted partner through life’s most challenging times. With us, every client and family is seen, supported, and valued.

What made you want to do this work?

Good Comfort was born out of a deeply personal experience with my wife, Jane, while caring for her father over the course of seven years. We were thrust into the world of homecare overnight, with no roadmap and no one to guide us through the complexities of the care journey. Those years were filled with sleepless nights, anxiety, and stress as we struggled to find the support and care he truly needed.

What struck us the most was how homecare was delivered with little care. We knew there had to be a better way. That realization sparked our mission to transform homecare: to bring genuine care back into homecare.

We wanted to create something that would ease the burden for others, helping families navigate their own care journeys with compassion, dignity, and support. It’s often said that the simple act of caring is heroic. We couldn’t agree more. Good Comfort exists to make that heroism possible for families, ensuring no one has to face the challenges of caregiving alone.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

We wanted to simplify the complex and overwhelming process of caring for loved ones, whether at home, in residences, or hospitals, by bringing all aspects of care under one roof. The care journey involves so many moving parts—coordinating care, transportation to appointments or the hospital, and providing essential products like rollators, beds, wheelchairs, and safety bars. In addition to that, wellness services like occupational therapy, nutrition, registered massage, and foot care can quickly become unmanageable for families.

At Good Comfort, we take care of it all so our clients can focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with their loved ones.

We also wanted to address the often-overlooked importance of caregiver-client compatibility. That’s why we carefully match our care partners—our Good Comfort caregivers—with clients based on personality, skills, language, and culture, ensuring a seamless and supportive relationship.

Our goal is to alleviate the stress and burden of caregiving while providing compassionate, personalized, and high-touch care.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Our clientele includes anyone in need of care, regardless of age or situation. While the majority of our clients are 60+, we also serve individuals requiring short-term care, such as those recovering from surgery, undergoing cancer treatment, or healing from an injury.

We’re also here for individuals who live alone without family nearby and need companion care—whether it’s help running errands, ensuring medications are taken properly, or simply having someone to provide support and connection.

At Good Comfort, our focus is on meeting the unique needs of every client, no matter their age or circumstance, with compassion and personalized care.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

At Good Comfort, we provide personalized care services tailored to each client’s unique needs. It all begins with a conversation to assess the individual’s care requirements.

From there, we create a customized plan that includes care matching, scheduling, and identifying any care products or services needed, such as mobility aids or wellness support.

Our revenue comes from offering these comprehensive care services, whether it’s in-home support, transportation, care products, or wellness services. What sets us apart is our holistic and integrated approach—we handle every detail so families can focus on spending time with their loved ones.

Our dedicated care team ensures a seamless experience, building meaningful connections with our clients at every step. This personal touch is at the heart of how we operate and why families trust us with their care journey.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Good Comfort has grown from a small, passionate team into a network of skilled PSWs, Nurses, Therapists, and Wellness Experts across Ontario. While we’re not tied to a single location, our services are available across communities in Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area and the Georgian Triangle.

We bring personalized care directly to our clients—whether at home, in residences, or in hospitals—ensuring accessibility and convenience. Wherever you are in these regions, Good Comfort is committed to providing compassionate, innovative care tailored to your needs.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

Question: What makes Good Comfort different from a traditional care agency?

Answer: At Good Comfort, we’re more than just a care agency—we’re a one-stop care company with a holistic and integrated approach to homecare. Unlike traditional agencies that may only provide a caregiver, we take care of every aspect of the care journey.

This includes not only matching clients with a compatible care partner but also coordinating transportation, arranging for essential care products like mobility aids, and offering wellness services such as occupational therapy, nutrition, and massage. We ensure every detail is managed so families can focus on spending quality time with their loved ones, knowing that all their needs are covered.

Our goal is to alleviate the stress of caregiving by offering a seamless, compassionate, and comprehensive home care that truly makes a difference.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part of our work is the incredible connections we build with diverse, inspiring individuals. Every person we care for has a unique story, a wealth of wisdom, and life experiences to share. Providing care is an honour, and we deeply value the relationships we form—it’s what makes this work so fulfilling.

The hardest part, without question, is saying goodbye to the people we’ve cared for. While it’s a natural part of life, it never gets easier. Our connections run deep, and we truly think of our clients as part of the Good Comfort family. Their memories and stories stay with us, reminding us of the profound impact this work has on everyone involved.

Where can we follow you?

Website | Instagram

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Juno Vet is transforming the veterinary industry in many ways. Good Comfort is transforming the homecare industry. Better care for your pets and their owners. Better homecare for your loved ones and family.

The post Homegrown Business: Marcel Zierfuss of Good Comfort Homecare appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

Dr. Patel: Whole Body MRI is an online platform where you can book Whole Body MRI scans and other preventive health scans performed by a licensed facility in the Greater Toronto Area. A full-body MRI scan is an important tool in early detection and preventive healthcare, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and a patient-centred approach to revolutionize diagnostic imaging services.

What made you want to do this work?

Dr. Shah: Dr. Patel and I share a deep passion for preventative healthcare. Our extensive experience in radiology and commitment to innovation inspired us to help facilitate service that emphasizes prevention and early detection.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

Dr. Shah: We wanted to address the limited access to comprehensive full-body MRI scans in Ontario. By helping to facilitate these services locally, Whole Body MRI allows individuals to undergo thorough health screenings without needing to travel, ensuring timely detection and intervention for potential health issues.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Dr. Patel: Our clients are diverse, including health-conscious individuals, those with a family history of medical conditions, and anyone prioritizing early detection and wellness.

We serve people across Ontario who seek proactive healthcare solutions and advanced diagnostic services.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

Dr. Patel: Whole Body MRI scans have to be paid for out of pocket as they are not covered by the provincial healthcare system. Like any business, we need to account for our expenses, including facility and radiology fees. The cost of a Whole Body MRI Scan currently is $3,250 which reflects the comprehensive nature and high quality of our scans.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Dr Shah: We’re located in the heart of Mississauga and have another location in Ajax, Ontario. Our modern clinic is equipped with cutting-edge MRI technology and staffed by experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to providing exceptional care and accurate diagnostics.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

Dr. Patel: The best question a prospective client could ask is how do our scans work?

Our full-body MRI scans use advanced MRI technology and artificial intelligence to provide a detailed, radiation-free assessment of vital organs, tissues, and systems. This facilitates the early detection of over 500 types of cancers and diseases, offering unparalleled insight and accuracy in health diagnostics.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

Dr. Patel: The most rewarding part of running Whole Body MRI is empowering individuals to take charge of their health through early detection. The biggest challenge is spreading awareness.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

Dr. Shah: It’s hard to make room for jokes in the healthcare industry, but there is one common misconception we see in radiology I’d like to address. We conducted a survey earlier this year that found almost half of Canadians (47%) mistakenly believe MRI scans expose patients to radiation. While CT scans use ionizing radiation, which can damage cells and increase cancer risk over time, MRI scans are radiation-free. Given the significance of early detection of cancers and disease in improving patient outcomes, Canadians need to know that MRI scans are precise, non-invasive and radiation-free.

Where can we follow you?

Website | Instagram

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Dr. Patel: Dr. Sanjeev Goel and his team at Peak Human in Brampton are at the cutting edge of Anti-Aging, Integrative, and Regenerative Medicine. If you’re interested in biohacking and the fields of longevity and anti-aging, I highly recommend you look into Dr. Goel.

The post Homegrown Business: Drs. Nirav Patel and Keyur Shah of Whole Body MRI appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Emergency room wait times in Ontario average two hours. From the point of entry to the first assessment with the doctor, patients are likely to complete their visit within four to eight hours, for mild to moderate urgent care, and eight to twenty hours for severe matters and hospital admissions. Eight hours is the target time for patient admission; a quarter of all patients in the emergency room are admitted to the hospital within that time frame.

The growing need for effective solutions to offset hospital staffing shortages and enhance patient care were motivating factors for Team Triage Kiosk, composed of Scarborough duo Ann Baek and Kevin Lau. Baek is a fourth-year University of Toronto student; she is in the process of completing her Bachelor of Commerce specializing in Accounting with a focus in Data Science. Lau is a Primary Care Paramedic pursuing an undergraduate degree in Music at the University of Toronto. The duo collaborated as Team Triage Kiosk in Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow contest, winning the top prize for their enterprising creation – an AI-powered triage kiosk. Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow is a STEM competition which encourages participants to be inventive about their approach to creating local innovation with a global impact.

Baek and Lau have utilized cutting edge technology to simplify and expedite patient waitlists and improve the overall experience for hospital staff and patients being triaged. Lau highlights the importance of developing “progressive solutions that will allow for improved allocation of resources, increasing efficiency in our hospital systems”. Baek sees technology as an avenue which can vastly improve quality assurance, “technology is becoming one of the biggest industries in the world today with lots of innovation… The topic of hospital wait times came up as I was discussing my [concussion] experience in the Emergency Room with Kevin [Lau]”. Baek considers this the catalyst moment where Team Triage Kiosk “… thought it would be nice if there was something that could lift the burden off of some staff and also allow patients to be more assured of their treatment”.
Baek and Lau agree the triage kiosk can be an instrumental tool “streamlining the intake patient process”. Lau asserts the goal of the triage kiosk is to “replace duties that do not require clinical oversight with interactive technology”. The triage kiosk could replace tasks including inputting demographic information and asking introductory questions. Baek and Lau are hoping the triage kiosk will one day perform vital signs monitoring and that the process can support paramedics in order to decrease triage and offload delays. Baek believes that with more advances this technology can assist healthcare workers with how they monitor patient conditions.

The evolution of society can be found in implementing STEM-based curriculum, according to Lau. Baek concurred with this sentiment highlighting, “STEM-based fields today are one of the fastest growing industries, with many advances even in the past 10 years”. Despite the many benefits, Lau is mindful of the impact of artificial intelligence, offering, “it is important to cultivate discussions regarding the ethics of artificial intelligence. As AI technology advances to exceed certain capabilities for the better, there is also potential in it to do harm. The symptomatology for any given diagnosis uniquely varies from one patient to another. Whether a computer can make life altering clinical decisions based on collected data, or detect nuances in human behaviour remains inconclusive”.

The fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics often lack diversity, both Baek and Lau believe diversifying STEM-based fields is important as it influences varying perspectives. Baek posits, “diversity fosters innovation by bringing together different perspectives and experiences, ensures that all individuals have equal opportunities to contribute and succeed, and helps address societal challenges by leveraging a broader range of talent and expertise”. Baek considers this incredibly beneficial in healthcare as it helps address disparities in overall health and offers avenues to develop effective best practices.

Baek and Lau are in the early stages of developing the triage kiosk and hope their journey inspires others to see the impact STEM-based innovations can foster.

The post Scarborough Duo’s Kiosk Triages Hospital Wait Times appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

We need to find ways to ensure that people remain healthy for as long as possible as they get older. Scientists in the field of geroscience are working on this and their research could have a profound effect on how Canadians age. Geroscience seeks to understand the genetic, molecular, and biological mechanisms of aging and their relationship to age-related diseases. Knowledge of these mechanisms could enable scientists to manipulate or slow the aging process.

Advancing age is a major risk factor for many diseases, including cancer, dementia and heart disease. Research has already shown that healthy aging behaviours, such as exercising and eating a healthy diet, can decrease the incidence of these diseases by changing the mechanisms of aging.

Expanding on this, the promise of geroscience is that medications and other interventions can alter the mechanisms of aging reducing the occurrence of chronic disease with age and producing more years of good health during our lifespan. A byproduct of this may also be increased longevity. Once the realm of science fiction, the field is rapidly advancing with extensive study in laboratories and early phase trial in humans starting in countries around the world.

In addition to novel compounds, researchers are also examining whether medications currently licensed to treat specific illnesses could also work to slow the aging process. An example of this is a trial planned in the United States assessing whether the diabetes drug metformin can delay the development or slow the progression of aging related chronic diseases. Another drug, rapamycin, currently used to prevent rejection in organ transplants, is also being studied for its anti-aging effects.

There are many challenges that need to be overcome before anti-aging therapies are widely available. These include developing the frameworks of how they are studied in humans starting with how they are judged to be effective. A key consideration is how long should the trials be? A drug may have short term benefit but may cause adverse effects, such as cancer, when taken for the long term. This is especially important for medications that would need to be taken for the rest of an individual’s life. Ethics committees will need to be vigilant that participants in these types of trials are not lured by potential benefits while possible downsides are minimized.

Although, it is too early to say if these drugs will ever meet Canadian government regulatory approval, geroscience has the potential to transform how we age. Through pharmaceutical interventions, we could remain healthy, active, and productive throughout much of our older years, with fewer people needing long-term care. The potential benefits to individuals, society, and the economy are enormous.

However, there are social and ethical implications that need to be addressed before we proceed much further.

We need to consider issues such as who will get access to age-slowing drugs. Should governments cover potentially very expensive age-slowing pharmaceuticals under their public health plans? While it might be expensive, it could help reduce costs related to treating and caring for older adults who are ill or living with frailty. On the other hand, these may just delay the development of frailty which will just move the costs down the road. If governments did not opt for full coverage, access would be limited to only those who have the means to obtain them, raising important equity issues.

We must also guard against those who would seek to hijack legitimate geroscience work and exploit it for their own financial gain by marketing unproven health interventions to reverse aging.

These issues were discussed at the Canadian Frailty Network and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research’s Institute of Aging’s Geroscience Summit that took place in Toronto on October 26, 2023. The event brought together experts from across Canada and around the world to investigate how to further geroscience research in this country such that the promise of geroscience is reached for the benefit of all Canadians.

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About the authors:

John Muscedere is CEO of the Canadian Frailty Network and a Professor in the School of Medicine at Queen’s University.

Jane Rylett is Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Aging, a Professor in the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University, and a Scientist at the Robarts Research Institute. (The views expressed herein are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of CIHR.)

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