The Manitoba government is proposing a charter of patient care, outlining broad principles for access, dignity, and privacy. If passed, the bill would require health organizations to publicly post these values. Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara stated that further legislation, such as setting nurse-to-patient ratios, will provide more detail.
The legislation also formalizes the role of patient advocates, requiring health authorities and organizations to appoint advocacy officers and inform the public on how to contact them. Opposition Leader Obby Khan criticized the government's broad promises, questioning the delivery of resources and reduction of wait times. Emergency room wait times in Winnipeg hospitals have been reported between eight and 12 hours. The bill also mandates improved information sharing between health authorities regarding critical incident reports.