In a definitive display of community solidarity, residents of Kingston and its surrounding areas have voted against the privatization of public hospitals in a recent referendum held over the weekend. The referendum, organized locally by the Kingston Health Coalition as part of a province-wide initiative led by the Ontario Health Coalition, saw an overwhelming majority of participants rejecting the government’s proposal to hand over healthcare services to for-profit clinics and hospitals.
A total of 10,394 engaged residents cast their votes at 17 voting stations and various advance polls, all manned by 119 dedicated volunteers. The campaign, which spanned six weeks, also received immense support from dozens of local residents. The combined results revealed an astounding 10,256 votes against privatization, a mere 138 votes in favor, and 10 spoiled ballots. With over 98% of participants opposing privatization, it is evident that the community has voiced a strong objection to the government’s plans.
Joan Jardin, co-chair of the Kingston Health Coalition, during the announcement of the results, stated: “The local results show that our community is united in opposition to the government plans to move work out of our public non-profit hospitals into for-profit corporate clinics,” Jardin proclaimed. The Kingston Health Coalition played a pivotal role in mobilizing residents and raising awareness about the potential ramifications of privatization.
Jardin further emphasized that the community recognizes the untapped potential within the public healthcare system to improve patient care. She highlighted the wealth of innovative ideas, exceptional staff, and thriving communities and volunteers that can rally together to support non-profit care. According to Jardin, the root cause of the problems lies in a lack of government commitment, systemic underfunding, and a three-decade-long inclination towards for-profit corporations in delivering healthcare services, resulting in staff reductions within the public sector. She asserted that any further privatization would only exacerbate the existing issues.
The Kingston referendum was part of a broader province-wide initiative spearheaded by the Ontario Health Coalition, encompassing 1,000 voting stations across Ontario, alongside an online voting option. The collective results from across the province will provide a comprehensive picture of the public sentiment surrounding healthcare privatization.
Photo (KGH Heliport): Matthew Manor/KHSC (cc)
