Stiles calls for action to address Scarborough Health Network’s staffing crisis and ensure better care for residents

SCARBOROUGH — Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition Ontario NDP, met with front-line health care workers in Scarborough to discuss the ongoing staffing issues in hospitals and the growing hospital deficits due to lack of investments from the Ford government:

“Health care where you need it and when you need it is non-negotiable,” said Stiles. “Families in Scarborough are waiting for nearly 20 hours in the emergency room to get care. Millions across Ontario are still without a family doctor, and front-line health care workers are stretched thin.

“Scarborough Health Network is facing a $36 million deficit and an ongoing staffing crisis. Meanwhile, the Premier is busy spending millions of dollars on partisan ads, buying private jets, and dodging accountability.

"Families in Scarborough deserve better, faster health care close to home. They want to know that when they go to their local hospital, they will receive the care they need when they need it, without ever-growing wait times.

“That’s why we’re calling on the government to invest in Scarborough’s hospitals, bring in safe staffing ratios, and clear the pathways for internationally-trained health care professionals. Scarborough residents shouldn’t have to go downtown to get the care they need. It’s time for Scarborough to get its fair share.”

Stiles joined the President of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions and CUPE Local 5852 to write to the Minister of Health and call for more support for front-line health care workers at Scarborough Health Network.