Arthritis Society Canada’s statement in response to Ontario Government’s announcement re: specialized surgical centres

Finding and implementing solutions to reduce wait times for joint replacement surgery is a top priority for Arthritis Society Canada. Arthritis is the leading cause of joint replacement surgery, including 99% of knee and over 70% of hip replacements.

Too many Ontarians are waiting longer than recommended times for life-changing joint replacement surgery. Living for months or years with limited mobility and chronic pain is devastating for individuals, impacting both their physical and mental health and their overall quality of life. It can also lead to additional health conditions, adding costs to the health system.

Arthritis Society Canada strongly believes new and innovative approaches are required to address this urgent health crisis, and we are committed to working with all stakeholders to implement solutions. To learn more, please read our report regarding Canada’s backlog of hip and knee replacement surgeries.

As Ontario moves forward with this initiative it is vital that it engages the arthritis community and ensures all Ontarians have equitable and timely access to publicly funded quality care. It’s time to give Ontarians waiting in pain the care they deserve.

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