Access to quality healthcare is essential to the well-being of every individual and family in our community. Our federal Liberal government have been working to strengthen healthcare in Prince Edward Island by improving access, addressing gaps, and funding critical resources. Here’s how we’re making a difference:
1. Historic Healthcare Agreements
In partnership with the province, the federal government has signed a new 10-year healthcare agreement, bringing over $1 billion in federal funding to Prince Edward Island. This investment focuses on expanding access to family doctors and primary care services, reducing surgical and diagnostic backlogs, and enhancing mental health and substance use treatment services.
2. Improving Long-Term Care
To ensure seniors receive compassionate and safe care, the federal government has committed funding to improve long-term care standards across Canada. $3 billion nationwide has been allocated to improve long-term care services, with PEI receiving a share to upgrade facilities, enhance staff training, and implement new care standards.
3. Lowering Prescription Drug Costs
The federal government has taken steps to reduce the cost of medication through the introduction of bulk purchasing programs, lowering the cost of essential medications. Launching the first phase of a national pharmacare program, including a $1.5 billion investment to cover medications like diabetes treatments and contraceptives.
4. Building Mental Health Infrastructure
The Mental Health and Addictions Acute Care Facility and Life Skills Centre is a $114 million, 168,000-square-foot facility replacing the Hillsborough Hospital, designed with input from individuals with lived experience to provide best-practice care. Construction began in early 2024 for the new Mental Health and Addictions Wellness and Transition Centre with completion expected in 2026, offering transitional support services.
5. Home and Community Care Support
The federal government has committed over $5 million to PEI to bolster home and community care services. This investment aims to reduce the burden on hospital staff by enabling more patients to receive appropriate care in their communities, thereby optimizing the allocation of healthcare resources.
These investments are about more than just numbers—they're about building a healthier, more resilient community. From reducing wait times to improving long-term care, our federal government remains committed to ensuring every Islander has access to the care they need, when they need it.
