TORONTO – The Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers of Ontario (“FACL”) expresses concern over the University Health Network’s (“UHN”) closure of the Asian Initiative in Mental Health Program (“AIM”) in Toronto.
Closing culturally sensitive programs reduces access to health care providers with whom Asian-Canadian patients can identify. Communication in a patient’s language and an understanding of the patient’s lived experiences as a person of Asian descent are vital supports for recovery and stability.
FACL urges UHN to reconsider this decision. We support the efforts of RE-AIM, a coalition of healthcare leaders, advocates, and community members. Equitable mental health support and care should be guaranteed for all.