TORONTO – Canadian doctors took to the streets Monday in protest of the federal government’s cuts to refugee health care benefits.
The National Day of Action Against Refugee Health Cuts, organized by the Canadian Doctors for Refugee Care (CDRC), has organized protests in front of legislatures and city halls across the country.
The CDRC, as well as various other groups, are standing up against changes being made to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), which currently offers temporary health care benefits for refugee claimants.
The cuts will exclude those whose medical condition is considered a risk to public health or safety.
The federal government says this will deter bogus refugee claims and ensure failed asylum seekers don’t take advantage of Canada’s free health care.
The Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS) announced its opposition in a press release on Monday, questioning IFHP’s “morality, legality, and cost-effectiveness.”
The Fédération Médicale Étudiante du Québec (FMEQ) also expressed its opposition, emphasizing that health care is being denied to those who most need it in a release.
Last year, the federal government got rid of drug, dental, and vision benefits to refugees who had not been in Canada long enough to qualify for provincial health coverage.
The CDRC and the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers challenge the cuts, claiming the reductions are unconstitutional and illegal.
Both organizations are asking the Federal Court of Canada for a judicial review of the cuts.
The Conservative government has consistently defended the cuts saying the changes will deter unfounded refugee claims and add equity to the system since Canadians themselves don’t get the benefits offered under the program.
Refugees will still receive basic health coverage, comparable to provincial programs, and medication and immunizations will be provided in cases where there is a risk to public health. The government expects the cuts will save taxpayers $100 million over five years.
Monday’s protests take place on Parliament Hill, in front of the Alberta Legislature, and in front of Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon.
With files from Rebecca Lindell and The Canadian Press.
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