Public health care is the foundation of a strong economy

Hundreds of Canadian economists and health policy experts published an open letter to governments Tuesday urging them to put stronger public health care at the centre of future economic strategies.
 
The letter, drafted by the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions and the Centre for Future Work argues that Canada’s public health care system is the foundation of our economy.
 
“Amidst global uncertainties and trade pressures, it’s time to strengthen our public health care system for the betterment of patients, workers and our economy at large,” said CFNU President Linda Silas in a news release.
 
“The Economic Benefits of Canada’s Public Health Care System” was signed by 275 economists, health policy experts and experts in related fields across Canada. It highlights the numerous economic benefits generated by Canada’s universal public health care system, including:
 
- Job-creation and economic growth
- Anchoring indirect jobs and supply chains
- Innovation and research
- Labour market advantages, such as lower labour costs and better labour mobility
- Fiscal savings
- Social equality and inclusion
 
“It is more important than ever to understand the economic value of sound public health care policies in Canada,” the letter reads. “Medicare is not just a cost item on government budgets. It is also a pillar of Canada’s economy, an engine of innovation, and a critical source of decent employment.”
 
The letter was initiated by five co-sponsors: Marc-André Gagnon, Professor at Carleton University; Dr. Alika Lafontaine, past president of the Canadian Medical Association; Dr. Danielle Martin, Professor at the University of Toronto; Steve Morgan, Professor at the University of British Columbia; and Jim Stanford, Economist and director of the Centre for Future Work.
 
“Public health care supports millions of jobs, fuels world-class innovation, and creates a healthier, more productive population. It’s time we treat public health care as essential to Canada’s future,” Silas said.
 
The full letter and list of signatories can be viewed here.