Hospitals Welcome Government Announcement Of New MRIs
Ontario Hospital Association
200 Front Street West, Suite 2800
Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3L1
Tel: (416) 205-1345 Fax: (416) 205-1360
Visit our Web Site: http://www.oha.com
Friday, September 24, 2004
TORONTO – The Ontario Hospital Association (OHA) today welcomed the announcement of nine new MRI machines by Premier Dalton McGuinty and Health & Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman as over time it will give more Ontarians access to needed diagnostic equipment.
"Ontario hospitals welcome today’s announcement because it means more patients will have access to needed diagnostic care," said OHA Board Chair Tony Dagnone. "This is good news for patients in communities across Ontario."
According to the details of today's announcement, new MRI machines are in place, or will be rolled out in the time ahead, in the communities of Ottawa, Owen Sound, Oakville, Markham, Richmond Hill, Niagara Falls, London and Windsor.
"To shorten waiting times, Ontario hospitals need to be full partners in the government's transformation plan for health care," added Dagnone. "That's why we are very pleased that the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has asked the OHA to work with Dr. Alan Hudson on creating the plan to accomplish this important goal."
At the request of the ministry, the OHA is establishing a Blue Ribbon Task Force of leading experts to work with Dr. Hudson, leader of the Health Results Team responsible for access to services and shortening waiting times.
"I want to be very clear," said Dagnone. "Despite very serious financial pressures, the leadership of Ontario hospitals is deeply committed to doing everything possible to maintain care for patients."
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For further information:
Stefan Baranski, OHA Public Affairs
416-205-1305