Improving access to health care: Whose responsibility is it?
We often hear about the challenges of accessing health care, whether it's for a consultation, an examination, or a procedure within a reasonable timeframe. Yet access to care is essential to maintaining our health. That’s why, at Vitalité Health Network, we are actively working to improve it.
The fact is, our health does not depend solely on access to medical services. Our environment, social conditions, and lifestyle habits play a major role in our overall well-being. For instance, having adequate housing, easy access to nutritious food, quality education, stable employment, and sufficient income are all key factors that help prevent health problems.
Our individual behaviours also play a crucial role: being physically active, eating well, and avoiding tobacco are choices that can help prevent many chronic diseases such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, lung disease, and several types of cancer. These chronic conditions significantly increase the demand for health services.
When people are healthy, they require fewer consultations, tests, and treatments. This reduces pressure on the health care system and helps improve access for everyone. People living with chronic illnesses or health conditions also benefit from adopting healthy habits. These habits can help prevent complications, reduce the number of medical visits, and lower the risk of hospitalization.
So who can make a difference? Everyone! Governments at all levels can help by creating healthy environments, adopting policies that support and encourage healthy choices, and investing more in prevention. Public health interventions are proven to be more effective and less costly in the long term than curative care. For example, a local authority can mobilize citizens around local projects such as the development of safe cycle paths and community gardens. It can ensure that affordable, nutritious food is available in sports centres. The Tobacco and Vaping Products Act, which restricts advertising and regulates warnings on cigarette packages, and taxes on tobacco products have contributed significantly to reducing smoking in Canada. Similar initiatives could be adapted to support healthy eating and active lifestyles. Finally, the Baby-Friendly Initiative and the Planet Youth program are examples of models supported by Vitalité Health Network to promote healthy behaviours.
Ultimately, individuals who adopt healthy habits—such as avoiding tobacco, staying active, and maintaining a balanced diet—can greatly impact their own health, reduce their need for medical services, and, in turn, improve access to health care for the broader population.
In short, investing in prevention and healthy living means investing in a more accessible and sustainable health care system. Every gesture counts—for yourself and for the community.
Josée Gagnon
Vice‑President of Transversal Services
The “Voice of Our Leaders,” the blog of Vitalité Health Network’s Leadership Team, covers various topics related to transformation of the health system. The team members share their thoughts – transparently and from their own perspectives – on the issues, challenges and priorities within their areas of responsibility and the health system as a whole. Happy reading and happy reflection!
If you would like to share your thoughts or comments on this blog, please contact us at
