Our Work

Consensus Document

Building a Stronger, More Sustainable Health System for All Canadians

Canada’s health care system is at a critical crossroads. While it has long been guided by values of universality, equity, and accessibility, increasing pressures—from workforce shortages to growing mental health needs—demand urgent action. HEAL, a coalition of leading health care organizations, has developed a set of evidence-based recommendations to modernize and strengthen our health system for the future.

Our consensus document highlights three key areas for transformation:

Addressing the Health Human Resource Crisis – A national workforce strategy to improve recruitment, retention, and worker well-being.
Investing in Mental Health Parity – Ensuring mental health and substance use health services receive the same priority as physical health care.
Expanding Community-Based Care – Delivering care where people live, work, and play, with a focus on team-based approaches and digital solutions.

HEAL urges the federal government to take bold leadership in health system reform. By prioritizing these recommendations, we can build a more resilient, accessible, and person-centred system that meets the evolving needs of Canadians—now and into the future.