April 30, 2015

Poverty is the number one factor in determining whether Canadians live long, healthy lives (Canadian Medical Association).

1 in 3 Canadians have gone without needed health care in the absence of coverage.

Up to eight million Canadians (or 23.5% of the population) have no prescription coverage.

When people can’t afford necessary medicine or dental care, they end up in hospital which drives up health care costs.

The complexities of health care present major challenges for the marginalized (underinsured or uninsured).

Marginalized Canadians find it extremely difficult to access mainstream health care.

Direct philanthropic financial support to registered charitable, non-profit organizations that deliver frontline health care

Frontline care includes access to basic health – dental, vision, prescription drugs, mental health and disease management

Focus on marginalized populations such as homeless, the working poor, and those on social assistance

Must include the role of “navigator” – a person who connects individuals to other social determinants of health (jobs, housing, food, education, and other supports)