Private Clinics Billing Customers in Ontario
Ontario's official health care critic and Nickel Belt MPP, France Gélinas, raised concerns in the legislature on October 29 about private for-profit health clinics charging patients for services that should be covered by OHIP. She highlighted that such billing practices are illegal under the Canada Health Act.
Public Demonstration at Queen’s Park
Gélinas brought approximately 150 people to Queen's Park, all of whom had received bills from private clinics for medical services supposedly funded by OHIP. She addressed the legislature, pointing to the visitors and emphasizing their shared experience:
"Does the Minister of Health want to know what all the good people in the visitors’ gallery have in common? Well, let me tell you: They have all been charged for OHIP-funded services by a private, for-profit clinic, something that is illegal under the Canada Health Act."
Call for Ministry Investigation
Among the visitors, 50 had previously submitted a package to the health ministry in June, requesting an investigation into these illegal billing cases. Gélinas questioned why the ministry had neither investigated nor responded to these complaints.
Health Minister’s Response
Health Minister Sylvia Jones replied that these matters are handled through the Patient Ombudsman, which operates independently from political influence. She encouraged individuals seeking answers to contact the Ombudsman directly:
"I would encourage everyone who believes that they need to have a question answered to reach out to the Patient Ombudsman."
Further Questions Raised
Despite this, Gélinas pressed for more thorough action and clarity on the government's stance and response regarding illegal billing by private health clinics in Ontario.
Summary: France Gélinas demands answers on illegal billing by private clinics in Ontario, highlighting patient complaints ignored by the health ministry and urging oversight beyond existing ombudsman channels.