Across Ontario there are 3.3 million caregivers – ordinary people including children and youth who are caring for family members, partners, friends and neighbours who have physical and/or mental health needs. Ontario caregivers deliver more than 75% of all patient care, including personal, emotional and often medical care.

Caregivers have told us they are struggling to cope and caregiver burn-out is on the rise. Caregivers want improved communication between health care providers, better sharing of information with caregivers, easier transitions across care settings and greater access to resources and education in the community, regardless of where they live or diagnosis. Addressing these needs will help caregivers support the people they love and keep them as close to home as possible.

The proposed changes to Ontario’s health system, as announced today, have the potential to reduce bureaucracy, foster seamless transitions in care, enhance health care outcomes and improve the experience of Ontario caregivers and those for whom they care. The Ontario Caregiver Organization supports a health care system that supports caregivers.

Janet Beed, Board Chair