Working Towards a Solution
Addressing the needs of Canadians with arthritis is larger than any one group. It involves bringing together the talent, resources, and dedication of people with arthritis, arthritis organizations, health care professionals, universities, and provincial and federal Ministries of Health.
Given the magnitude of the problem, both social and economic, there needs to be:
A comprehensive Arthritis Strategy in every province (including the territories).
In order to serve the growing numbers of patients with arthritis, the proposed strategy in each province (including the territories) needs to find ways to provide:
Adequate numbers of rheumatologists and other health care professionals to care for arthritis patients in all regions of Canada
Reasonable wait times for joint replacement surgery
Proper arthritis training for all members of the health care team
Equitable access across Canada to safer and more effective medications and modalities
Appropriate services in the community
Tax relief for vehicle and home modifications
Priority Action Needed
Add this serious health issue to the agendas of the Federal/Provincial Ministers of Health.
