New Funding Will Ensure More People Get Treatment Closer To Home

TORONTO– The McGuinty government is investing $185 812 to support the eating disorder treatment program at North York General, Mike Colle announced today on behalf of Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman.

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that people in Eglinton Lawrence who suffer from eating disorders get the treatment they need closer to home”. “Eating disorders can lead to serious health problems, for both women and men, and we will continue to invest in programs that prevent and treat the negative impact of this disease.”

The funding announced today is part of a $4.5 million investment  -- $2 million being distrubuted now and a further $2.5 million for the fiscal year beginning in April --  being provided to eating disorder treatment programs across the province.  This investment will increase the annual funding for these programs to $11.6 million.

North York General is one of 18 hospitals in Ontario that provide specialized inpatient, outpatient and day patient treatment programs for children, youth and adults with eating disorders.

Funding is also being provided to the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association, which offers specialized education and support services to help prevent eating disorders and support people and families who are affected by them.

“Our government recognizes the important role these services play in maintaining and improving the health of Ontarians with this complex and difficult to treat disorder,” Smitherman said. “Today’s investment will only enhance the commitment we have made so far to helping people across Ontario lead active and healthy lives.”

Today’s initiative is part of the McGuinty government’s plan to build a health care system that delivers on three priorities - keeping Ontarians healthy, reducing wait times and providing better access to doctors and nurses.