What new surgeries will private clinics offer in Ontario?

Ontario will begin offering hip and knee replacement surgeries in private clinics starting early next year.

How much is Ontario investing in private health care expansion?

Ontario is investing $125 million over two years to expand private clinic services for publicly funded surgeries.

Why are critics concerned about Ontario's private clinic expansion?

Critics believe the funds allocated for private clinics should instead be directed towards much-needed funding for public hospitals.

Home / Health / Ontario Expands Private Clinics for Public Health Surgeries

Ontario Expands Private Clinics for Public Health Surgeries

9 Dec

•

Summary

Ontario plans to add 20,000 hip and knee surgeries in private clinics.
The province is investing $125 million over two years for this expansion.
Critics argue funds should go to public hospitals needing $1 billion.

Ontario is taking a significant step in expanding its publicly funded health care system by increasing the number of private clinics that will offer these services. Starting early next year, four specialized centers will begin performing hip and knee replacement surgeries, marking the next phase of this provincial strategy.

The initiative includes a substantial investment of $125 million allocated over the next two years. This funding is intended to support an additional 20,000 orthopedic surgeries. Health Minister Sylvia Jones stated that this expansion aims to ensure 90 percent of patients receive hip and knee replacements within clinically recommended timeframes, a notable increase from the current 80 percent.

This expansion builds on previous efforts, including the increased provision of cataract surgeries and diagnostic imaging services like MRIs and CT scans through private facilities. However, the move has drawn criticism, with opponents arguing that the $125 million would be more effectively used to address the $1 billion in additional funding that public hospitals reportedly require.