Ottawa

The health care debate Stephen Harper is ready to have

For those interested in a health care debate ahead of impending federal-provincial negotiations, the Harper government seems keen to start the discussion on their terms. Or rather, their term.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, May 18.

I do think that the public wants to understand better from all governments how the amounts of money we’re putting into health care are going to lead to better outcomes, greater accountability for results.

Throne Speech, June 3.

Our Government is committed to respecting provincial jurisdiction and working with the provinces and territories to ensure that the health care system is sustainable and that there is accountability for results.

Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq, yesterday.

Our discussions will emphasize the importance of accountability and results for Canadians, including better reporting from the provinces and territories to measure progress and guarantees covering additional medically necessary procedures.

Accountability is a term the Health Council of Canada seems interested in as well.

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