Patient Wait Times Costing Economy 14.8B

It found that having patients wait for these procedures cost federal and provincial government revenues a combined $4.4 billion in 2007. The analysis focused on the costs of "excess waits" -- that is: the cost of waiting for treatment beyond maximum recommended wait times as assessed by the Wait Time Alliance for Timely Access to Health Care. The study found that "excess waits" rob the economy of workers -- both the patients and their caregivers. They also lead to increased costs on the health care system, as patients need extra appointments, tests and medication. And they cost governments through disability pensions and welfare costs, as well as in lost tax revenue. The CMA notes that their analysis is conservative. It addresses only the time a patient waits for a treatment or MRI after it has been ordered by a specialist. It does not include the wait in getting to see that specialist -- or even in getting to see one's family doctor. The solution, the CMA concludes, is simple: reduce wait times. ... http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080115/wait_times_080115/20080115

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