Ontario’s Primary Care Act: A Landmark Step for Healthcare Access
Ontario has introduced the groundbreaking Primary Care Act, 2025, set to become the first legislation in Canada establishing a clear framework for publicly funded primary care. If passed, it promises to guarantee that every Ontarian knows what to expect when accessing family doctors or primary care teams, no matter where they live.
Connecting Millions: The Government’s Bold Vision
As part of the government’s ambitious Primary Care Action Plan, Ontario aims to connect two million more residents to family doctors or primary care teams within four years. Deputy Premier and Health Minister Sylvia Jones calls this “a major step forward” in protecting the healthcare system and improving access for all.
$300 Million Boost for Teaching Clinics and Workforce Growth
The 2025 Ontario Budget includes a $300 million investment to build and expand up to 17 community-based primary care teaching clinics in areas with high demand. Partnering with leading universities, these clinics will train family doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals, helping connect an additional 300,000 Ontarians to primary care.
Six Pillars Defining Ontario’s Primary Care Future
The Primary Care Act sets out six patient-centered objectives to ensure care is:
- Province-wide: Accessible to everyone across Ontario
- Connected: Coordinated with health and social services
- Convenient: Timely and easy to access
- Inclusive: Free from barriers and discrimination
- Empowering: Patients can access their health info digitally
- Responsive: Tailored to community needs with transparent reporting
Supporting Providers and Modernizing Care
The plan also focuses on recruiting and retaining healthcare workers, reducing administrative burdens, and expanding digital tools to improve patient navigation and referrals. Ontario is increasing family medicine education seats by 67%, the largest expansion in over a decade.
A New Era for Ontario’s Healthcare System
With nearly 100,000 new nurses and over 15,000 physicians added since 2018, Ontario is making historic strides to ensure quality care is available closer to home. The Primary Care Act and Action Plan pave the way for a more connected, accessible, and sustainable healthcare future.
Insight:
Ontario’s Primary Care Act, 2025, sets a bold national precedent by enshrining patient rights and system goals into law. This transformative approach promises to reshape healthcare access for millions.
