Canadians deserve a pandemic inquiry

Politicians, as well as many Canadians, want to put the pandemic behind them. But the pandemic is a crisis that affected all aspects of society, and its legacy continues to affect us.
‘Enormously complex’ file in store for new minister Saks, say addictions specialists, as calls grow for more funding to address ‘overdose crisis’

‘Until we start taking this seriously and we actually see some political will to do something about this, we’re going to continue to see it getting worse,’ says University of Calgary clinical assistant professor Robert Tanguay.
With Canadians frustrated by health-care system, new minister Holland brings ‘more punch’ to communications

Former health minister Jean-Yves Duclos’ relationship with the NDP had ‘soured,’ says one former NDP staffer, and Mark Holland’s relationships with that party will be a strength when it comes time to negotiate items like pharmacare and dental care as part of the supply-and-confidence agreement.
Critics worry Canada’s approach to pandemic treaty marks continued gap between ‘rhetoric’ and ‘reality’ on vaccine equity

‘In situations where lives are at risk … humanity has to trump profit,’ says NDP MP Heather McPherson.
Every Canadian should receive opioid response training and carry nasal naloxone

While every level of government has a role in responding to the opioid crisis, the federal government is uniquely positioned to mobilize a national response.
We need a forensic examination of Canada’s COVID-19 response

Hindsight is 20/20, but its benefits should not be dismissed out of hand, especially when discussing something with the gravity of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Public health experts, NDP MP Davies echo medical journal’s call for inquiry into Canada’s pandemic response

Health Minister Mark Holland’s office said the government would ‘take stock of lessons learned,’ but stopped short of committing to a public inquiry.
A dental care workforce shortage threatens the success of the Canadian Dental Care Plan

The Canadian Dental Care Plan must also prioritize addressing the unique challenges faced by dental practices in remote and rural communities, often referred to as ‘dental deserts.’
Federal support for host-directed therapeutics will help prepare for future health emergencies

With continued support, HDTs have the potential to become an important tool in both pandemic preparedness and biodefence for Canada and our global partners.
Canadian Dental Care Plan should focus on preventive oral health services

The federal government’s recent rollout of the Canada Dental Benefit emphasizes the necessity of access to dental care.