Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as a Member I am concerned about the policy that was developed last June and announced by the Department of Health. The policy I'm referring to, Mr. Speaker, is with regard to medical examination on user-fees for seniors. The policy institutes a user-pay system for annual medical check-ups. This policy, once again, is setting up the Department of Health to fail in considering long-term ramifications of their policies in favour of short-term gain.
My concern, Mr. Speaker, is for the long-term effects that this policy will have on the health and well-being of our elders. Our elders are one of our most valuable resources and have a substantial role to play in shaping the future of the territories.
This government is quick to assure the people of the Northwest Territories that our elders are valued, respected and their voices heard. Yet, at a life stage when accessible health care is the most important, the Department of Health is refusing to provide medical examinations free of cost unless the individual has waited at least two years since the last check-up. This is not acceptable.
Mr. Speaker, in my observation, elders in the Northwest Territories are already often reluctant to seek medical advice. Serious risks to life and health, such as lung cancer or heart disease, remain undetected because our senior citizens hesitate to report a concern and to use the resources of our health care system until the symptoms become too painful to ignore. Seniors do not want to be a burden.
Although seniors are simply not aware of potential risks, there is no doubt that seniors will much more likely hesitate when they know the department will levy a fee for a medical check-up. While I understand that this fee may be waived if the elders can present sufficient grounds, this should not be their concern. There are elders who are even reluctant to provide sufficient grounds due to their pride.
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to continue with my statement.