Support for Optometric, Chiropractice and Physiotherapy Services in OHIP

Whereas,

Elimination of OHIP coverage will mean that many of the 1.2 million patients who use optometry, chiropractic and physiotherapy will no longer be able to access the health care they need.

Recent studies have shown that this action will actually cost the health system millions of dollars as those with reduced ability to pay will be forced to seek care in already overburdened family physician offices and emergency departments. There was no consultation with the public or backbenchers on the decision to delist these services.

We petition the Legistlative Assembly of Ontario to reverse the decision to announce in the May 18, 2004 Provincial Budget and maintain OHIP coverage for optometric, chiropractic and physiotherapy services, in the best interests of the public, patients, the health care system, government and the Province.