Ongoing trade war with U.S. may impact Ontario health care

Health associations are voicing increased worries the ongoing trade war with the U.S. may impact Ontario health care.

The Ontario Hospital Association says tariffs and counter-tariffs will likely bring significant risks to the province’s health care system, including the disruption of access to vital equipment.

The association says it is working with the federal and Ontario governments to try to minimize the impact on hospitals.

Christine Donaldson, president and CEO of HealthPRO Canada, which purchases medications, supplies and equipment for over 2,000 hospitals, health-care facilities and long-term care homes across the country, said the company is also seeking clarity about potential future counter-tariffs.

Although it is not yet clear what products could be affected by any future counter-tariffs, Donaldson said some essential medications, medical devices and diagnostic imaging equipment – including MRI and CT scanners, surgical tools and ventilators – often come from U.S. manufacturers.

Counter-tariffs on food, mattresses and other non-medical goods could also affect hospitals, she said.

Diabetes Canada says it has been talking to the Federal Health Ministry, trying to ensure that materials used to package medications and make medical devices aren’t included in any future rounds of counter-tariffs.

With files from The Canadian Press.

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