October 4, 2021
The Ford Government has kicked off the Fall 2021 Legislature with a Throne Speech that was primarily focused on healthcare. TECHNATION applauds the Government of Ontario for its pragmatic approach in today’s Throne Speech and continued commitment to investing in healthcare as we remain in the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our members from healthcare organizations across Canada note that the situation on the healthcare frontlines remains challenging. Ontario needs to maintain focus on the twin goals of alleviating strain on the health system and mitigating potential economic downturn.
As Ontario makes these significant front-line investments, the Government should also prioritize continued investment in virtual health solutions that will allow for remote care. During the pandemic, Ontarians have embraced virtual health as a way to safely access health care from home. Digital health project development is uniquely suited to a remote work environment; industry resources can continue to meet deliverables without increasing the COVID-19 infection curve or adding stress to the health system in which they work.
TECHNATION urges Ontario to make virtual healthcare a priority as it will improve patient access to healthcare, decrease wait-times and ensure the resources needed can go to front-line workers. Ontario’s Digital First for Health strategy is an important step, and we encourage the Government to keep moving forward with this initiative. The continued delivery of innovative best practices and digital transformation projects is a critical success factor for enhancing the health and wellbeing of Ontarians, while ensuring a sustainable healthcare system through continued improvements in efficiency, efficacy, and effectiveness.
As we await Finance Minister Bethlenfalvy’s Fall Economic Statement, TECHNATION will continue to work with the Ontario Government on areas such as improvements to digital government and quickening the pace of procurement for the tech sector of all sizes to help stimulate Ontario’s economic recovery.
About TECHNATION
TECHNATION is the industry-government nexus for technology prosperity in Canada. As a member-driven, not-for-profit, TECHNATION unites Canada’s technology sector, governments, and communities to enable technology prosperity in Canada. TECHNATION champions technology prosperity by providing advocacy, professional development and networking opportunities across industry and governments at all levels; connecting Canadian scale-ups with global tech leaders; engaging the global supply chain; and filling the technology talent pipeline. TECHNATION has served as the authoritative national voice of the $230 billion ICT industry for over 60 years. More than 44,000 Canadian ICT firms create and supply goods and services that contribute to a more productive, competitive, and innovative society. The ICT sector generates more than 671,100 jobs and invests $8.0 billion annually in R&D, more than any other private sector performer. For more information: www.technationcanada.ca
To arrange an interview
Sarah Coombs: Cell: 416-729-8550 or scoombs@technationcanada.ca