Canada faces calls to rescind planned cuts to refugee healthcare scheme
Briefly

Canada faces calls to rescind planned cuts to refugee healthcare scheme
"Health workers and rights advocates argue that the introduction of co-payments for the Interim Federal Health Program will effectively deny care to vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers, putting them at greater risk."
"Dr. Ritika Goel stated, 'We want to make sure that we have a universal healthcare system, and we also don't want a system that punches down against vulnerable people and migrants.'"
"The Canadian government announced changes to the IFHP, which will require individuals to pay $4 for eligible prescription medications and 30 percent for supplemental services, raising concerns about accessibility."
"A spokesperson for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada mentioned that co-payments are intended to manage demand and ensure the sustainability of the IFHP while maintaining fairness with other publicly funded health programs."
The Canadian government plans to implement co-payments for the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) starting May 1, requiring refugees and asylum seekers to pay for prescriptions and supplemental services. Critics argue these changes threaten vulnerable populations and could lead to increased healthcare costs in the future. Rallies across Canada, including a significant protest in Toronto, have called for the reversal of these cuts. Advocates emphasize the need for a universal healthcare system that supports all individuals, particularly those in precarious situations.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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