| Canada is the only G8 nation without a national mental | | | | save time, money and frustration for professionals and |
| health strategy and mental health is the most | | | | clients, especially those who have a dual diagnosis. |
| under-serviced part of the health care system. This | | | | The entire health care system in Alberta is changing in |
| seems rather strange considering the fact that one out | | | | a number of other ways. Health regions which were |
| of five Canadians will experience a mental illness at | | | | previously localized have now been centralized under |
| some time in life. | | | | one provincial "super" board of directors. This change |
| But changes are coming. | | | | is being debated by citizens who have been openly |
| In 2007 the Mental Health Commission of Canada was | | | | expressing their opinions about whether it will help or |
| formed. Its objectives are to create a practical guide | | | | hinder. Some believe that the centralization under one |
| for mental health transformation through a ten year | | | | board will save money whereas others believe that |
| mental health promotion and discrimination campaign. | | | | the members of the super board do not have a |
| At its base is a goal of developing knowledge for | | | | regional perspective and, because of this, communities |
| Canadians and conducting research projects involving | | | | will not have their needs met. |
| homeless individuals. Eight national volunteer advisory | | | | The Alberta government has also eliminated premiums |
| committees will be formed which focus on various | | | | for health care services beginning on January 1, 2009. |
| segments including child and youth, family caregivers, | | | | Although individuals and families appear to be happy |
| First Nation Inuit and Metis, mental health and the law, | | | | about this there is always the underlying concern that |
| science, seniors, the service system and the | | | | services need to be paid for and that taxpayers will |
| workforce. | | | | ultimately end up paying in another form. |
| It is hoped that the Commission will have a lasting and | | | | It is interesting to note that whenever change is |
| positive impact on the health and daily lives of | | | | introduced, there are always some who support the |
| Canadians from coast to coast. | | | | ideas while others oppose them. Well, new change is |
| Other provincial initiatives are also in progress in | | | | coming, changes are in progress and changes are |
| Canada . For example, in Alberta, mental health and | | | | expected throughout Canada when it comes to health |
| addictions services are being merged into one | | | | care. So, I guess we had better be prepared to listen |
| seamless service which will provide single entry for | | | | to the debates! |
| assessment and treatment of individuals. This should | | | | |