Ontario looks to improve safety standards for medical transfers

Government agrees with findings of ombudsman

Ontario is looking to improve the standards for non-emergency medical transfers in the province by proposing to set quality and safety standards that would apply both to drivers and passengers.

The government plans to introduce legislation as soon as possible that would, if passed, regulate the industry by setting core standards and requirements on transporting passengers between health-care facilities in non-emergency situations, according to the province.

The government said it agreed with findings from the ombudsman
the industry requires effective and comprehensive regulation as soon as possible.

"Our government is committed to the safety of all drivers and passengers, including passengers being transferred during non-emergency situations," said Kathleen Wynne, minister of transportation.

Ontario would also enforce compliance standards to ensure these requirements are being met.

The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced after consultations with the medical transportation services industry, health-care providers and the public

 

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