The NDP is asking the province to set up an emergency fund for people needing to use the Northern Health Travel Grant.
Health Critic Frances Gelinas says some communities have help available, but only for a select few.
“If you are a member of a First Nation, if you are on Ontario Works, or Ontario Disability Support Program or a child registered with Easter Seals, there is a bit of help for you,”
“But for most people there is no help available.”
Gelinas says the province needs to make sure there is some financial assistance available.
“People should not have to come to see me desperate for care, but not able to afford a bus ticket to Toronto to get the care they need. It’s clear Ontario needs an emergency fund available to the people of the north facing these circumstances.”
Gelinas says under the Health Travel Grant system, people have to pay their costs up front, and wait for reimbursement, that could take several weeks.
