Dr. Ron Bordessa, President of UOIT, introduces the Minister of Health prior to his presentation to the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade.
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Ajax business leaders given audience with Health Minister
Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade members were given the rare opportunity to bend the ear of Ontario's Minister of Health and Long-Term Care at a luncheon in Ajax Monday.
The Honourable David Caplan offered a presentation to a crowd of 80 at the Hilton Garden Inn, before taking several questions from the floor. Minister Caplan spoke of the success the government has had in reducing wait times for many surgeries, such as hip and cataract procedures, ensuring seniors get the care they need, close to home.
He added that they are working to protect the gains they made during recent years when funding was easier to provide, unlike current months as the economy struggles. He pointed to the steps the Province has taken in its Spring budget to aid business because it is "needed to make Ontario's economy strong". In this way, they hope to protect health care and keep it "modern" and "sustainable".
From left, event sponsor representatives John B. Overzet, Carrithers Creek, and Dr. Ron Bordessa, UOIT, join Health Minister David Caplan and Board President John G. Smith.
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He added they continue to create more spots in the education system to train doctors and continue with efforts to hire more nurses. Plus, they have introduced Your Health Care Options, a section of the Ministry of Health website, to help educate Ontarians regarding where to go for care, rather than choose the emergency room as their first option, which is often the case.
Questions from the floor ranged from support needed for hospice, accepting foreign trained doctors to practice, direct support for Durham Region Health Care such as increasing options at the Whitby site and providing more information to the public.
The Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade extends its appreciation to the Minister for visiting Durham Region and continuing a strong relationship with the Board. Also, thank you to our business leaders and local health care officials for taking advantage of the opportunity to listen to the minister.
John B. Overzet, President of Carruthers Creek Golf, thanks the Minister for his presentation.
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Health Minister David Caplan addresses the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade.
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