New Funding Announced For Health Care Services And COVID-19 Treatment

Sunday, 3 May 2020 12:56

The federal government is investing over $240 million to create new virtual platforms for mental health and primary care and more than $175 million will go towards a biotech company out of Vancouver for COVID-19 treatment.

CANADA - The federal government announced new funding today for health care services.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement this morning during his daily COVID-19 briefing.

Prime Minister Trudeau says the government is investing over $240 million to bring health care online.

"We're expanding existing online tools, creating new virtual platforms for mental health and primary care. Let me start with the new platform for mental health. Whether you're looking for strategies to manage stress or support from a professional, this will be a resource for you. And if you're part of a marginalized community and you need specialized tools, well there'll be specific help for you as well. If we can provide mental health support online, there's no reason we can't leverage technology in other areas of health care too."

He adds the $240 million investment will also include funding for virtual care.

It'll be for when someone doesn't need to see a doctor and they can just have a video conference instead.

He says by helping doctors run appointments online, people can stay at home while getting care and our hospitals can focus on those who need care the most.

"If we can use apps to order dinner and video chats to stay in touch with family, we can use new technology to keep each other healthy."

Prime Minister Trudeau also announced the government will be investing over $175 million for COVID-19 treatment.

The money will go to support Vancouver biotech company AbCellera Biologics Inc, who have identified antibodies that could be used in drugs to treat the virus.

"This new funding will help them continue their vital work and will support human trials, beginning as early as July."

He adds until we have effective treatment, or a vaccine, we still need a reliable supply of everything from masks to ventilators.

Prime Minister Trudeau says a new COVID-19 supply council will be announced later today.

"This council will be tasked with finding innovative solutions to ensure our country continues to have the vital supplies necessary to keep Canadians safe."