Puslinch supports move to end age discrimination for stroke patients

Councillors here are offering their support for the recently-introduced Bill 9, End Age Discrimination Against Stroke Recovery Patients Act, 2016.

The proposed legislation introduced by Whitby-Oshawa MPP Lorne Coe earlier this year, passed second reading in the Ontario Legislature.

Proposed legislation

The bill has now been referred to the standing committee on social policy for consideration.

The proposed legislation is intended to ensure that any treatment recommended by a physician for a patient who is recovering from a stroke is provided to that patient promptly, regardless of the patient’s age.

Under current regulations, stroke survivors are not entitled to publicly funded treatment if they are between the ages of 19 and 64.

Puslinch Mayor Dennis Lever said he was unaware of the situation.

“I thought if you had a stroke, you would benefit from whatever services were available,” he said.

Councillor John Sepulis recommended council offer its support to end this age discrimination.

Expensive and difficult

Councillor Susan Fielding added people who suffer brain injuries face similar discrimination and must seek private care.

“I don’t understand the rationale,” Lever commented.

“Neither do I,” added Fielding.

“I’ve lived through this situation ... my husband was injured ... it is very expensive and difficult.”

She described the discrimination as “senseless .. because people often end up (in the health care) system in some other way.

“If they had the treatment, they could lead much fuller lives and perhaps return to work.”

Fielding added there are a number of brain-related issues which are not covered for rehabilitation.

Council supported Coe’s efforts.