Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) has joined HEAL (Organizations for Health Action) in signing a letter to the federal government urging the reversal of newly announced co-payments under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP).
As shared previously, the changes set to take effect May 1, 2026, introduce out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications and supplemental health services for refugees and asylum seekers. Alongside more than 40 national health organizations, SAC raised concerns that these co-payments will create significant barriers to accessing essential care—particularly for individuals and families already facing economic and health vulnerabilities.
This advocacy aligns closely with SAC’s federal priorities, including:
- equitable access to care for people with communication, hearing, swallowing, and balance needs;
- early intervention and continuity of services for children, youth, and families; and
- supporting health system sustainability by preventing care delays that lead to worse outcomes and increased system costs.
Refugees and asylum seekers often arrive in Canada with complex, untreated health needs. For those requiring speech-language pathology, audiology, rehabilitation, or assistive devices, even modest co-payments can result in delayed or forgone care, undermining health equity and contradicting Canada’s broader commitments to universal access.
Through this collective action with HEAL, SAC is reinforcing the importance of policies that protect access to essential services, reduce administrative burden on providers, and support the health and well-being of underserved populations. We will continue to advocate for a health system that prioritizes communication, safety, and care for everyone in Canada.
