NDP want more money for Northern Health Travel Grant

The provincial government is once again being asked to increase funding for the Northern Ontario Health Travel Grant.

NDP critic Jamie West says the travel grant doesn’t even cover the cost for accommodation.

“The Northern Health Travel Grant will give them $100 a night for hotel,” West told MPP’s at Queen’s Park during Question Period on Thursday.

“However, the “discount”, and I put that in quotes, hospital rates are now $250 a night.”

Health Minister Sylvia Jones says the government has pumped another 48.2 million dollars into the Health Travel Grant system and have made improvements to the system.

“Individuals can now apply electronically and get those reimbursements directly into their bank accounts. It means there is not the unnecessary delay and red tape and it’s been very helpful.”

West adds the mileage rate is only 41 cents a kilometer, but it only get compensated after the first 100 kilometers.