Now that she’s the federal Health Minister, Patty Hajdu hopes to get moving on universal drug coverage.
The Thunder Bay-Superior North MP seems optimistic, noting the Trudeau Liberals already took some steps toward universal drug coverage during their first term.
“I think that that will be definitely a priority for us,” Hajdu says, “Working with our colleagues across the aisle, our caucus colleagues, our provincial colleagues, to ensure that Canadians have more affordable access to medication.”
Hajdu, who previously served as Executive Director of Shelter House and Co-ordinator of the Thunder Bay Drug Strategy, points out her former work gave her the opportunity to work closely with health agencies.
She says her Drug Strategy work in particular gave her an understanding of a “holistic approach” to addressing substance use. Hajdu indicates substance use is a complex issue and there’s no quick fix.
“However, I have been out of that field for a few years, so I am looking forward to speaking with stakeholders, hearing the emerging evidence, [and] talking to people on the ground about new ideas about how we actually support people who are struggling.”
Hajdu also isn’t opposed to looking at universal dental care, although she admits it is too early in her mandate to commit to that.