BCNU stands in support of refugee healthcare
Join the June 16 National Day of Action and support the campaign to reinstate healthcare services for refugees
The government's sweeping changes to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) came into effect in June 2012. Since then, all refugees except government-assisted refugees lost access to medication coverage, vision and dental care. And many have lost all health coverage, including urgent and essential care, except in cases of specific infectious diseases.
As predicted, many refugees are suffering as a result of the cuts. Many cases have been documented of people being denied access to necessary healthcare services including pregnant women and sick children. Various media have also reported shocking examples of very ill patients being denied care because they were not insured by the federal government. Some have become so sick that they eventually have to be admitted to hospital, incurring costs that could have been prevented.
The government has refused to meet with any national healthcare organization on this issue.
June 16, 2014 is the National Day of Action for Refugee Care. Major protests are being planned across the country by healthcare workers, advocates for refugees and the general public. BCNU members are encouraged to participate in local events supporting the Day of Action.
Two BC rallies are planned on Monday June 16:
In Vancouver at 12:00 Noon in front of the Immigration and Refugee Board office at Library Square, 300 West Georgia Street.
In Victoria at 4:00pm at the corner of Douglas Street and Fort Street.
Nurses cannot stand by while some of the most vulnerable in our society are denied basic healthcare services for urgent and acute medical needs. Cutting refugee claimants off from primary and preventative healthcare is an unacceptable way to address problems in Canada's immigration system.
Members can learn more about the changes to the IFHP and find out details about opportunities to support the National Day of Action at www.cdrcdayofaction.com.