BC 2021 budget is promising faster access to surgeries and shorter wait times for diagnostic imaging.
Diagnostic imaging, which includes X-rays, mammograms, Ultrasound and CT scan, is described as a non-invasive method of looking inside the body to confirm a diagnosis.
As part of the budget, the government plans to spend $495 million to increase diagnostic imaging and capacity for surgeries.
Budget 2021 focuses on protecting people’s health and livelihoods through the pandemic, while making investments in services, infrastructure and opportunities to support a strong recovery and a brighter future for everyone.
The budget will also give $300 million over three years to address growing demand for cancer care, PharmaCare and other services under the Medical Services Plan.
BC will also invest in seniors, including giving $68 million over three years to deliver quality home care by increasing the number of care aides and other care providers in communities.
As much as $500 million is also being kept aside to continue to expand mental health and substance-use services to better connect people to the culturally safe and effective care they need.
The budget also provides $900 million in new funding for testing, contact tracing, personal protective equipment and the largest vaccine rollout in BC’s history.
A further $97 million will be used to build a network of mental health supports for youth through increased mental health funding for schools, and new Foundry centres.
