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)