March 9, 2010

NEWS:

 QUEEN’S PARK – Durham MPP John O’Toole warned today that, under the watch of the McGuinty government, Ontario is becoming a bulk buyer of healthcare in the United States.

 Speaking in Question period, Mr. O’Toole said the referral of Ontarians to healthcare providers in the U.S. is making a mockery out of claims in the Throne Speech that no one who gets sick will be turned away. “What this government doesn’t mention is that they may have to travel to an American hospital or clinic.”

 Mr. O’Toole said he is disappointed that neither the Minister of Government Services nor the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care has told the Legislature how much the Province is paying to purchase healthcare in the U.S. Nor has the government given details about its arrangements for purchase these services through tenders and contracts.

 “This government is becoming a bulk buyer of U.S. healthcare, and citizens have a right to know how much it costs,” Mr. O’Toole said.

 In the Ontario Legislature last week, members of the Official Opposition revealed that the number of Ontario patients being sent to the United States for cancer and cardiac care has increased by a shocking 450% under the watch of the McGuinty government.

 QUOTE:

 “This government is becoming a bulk buyer of U.S. healthcare, and citizens have a right to know how much it costs,” – John O’Toole, MPP – Durham

 QUICK FACTS:

•  Approximately 12,000 Ontario families have been forced to seek healthcare services in the United States. That’s up by a startling 450% since the McGuinty government took office. Ontario citizens have the right to receive these healthcare services in Ontario.

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 For further information please contact:

John O’Toole, MPP – Durham  /  (905) 697-1501 / 1-800-661-2433