TORONTO – Ontario Health may not be moving forward with plans to fix the crumbling health sector; however, the Minister of Health Sylvia Jones was able to fix an issue of inclusion on Ontario health cards.
Now the francophone community will be represented correctly on their identification as health cards will adopt the appropriate accents (e.g., ç, è, é, ê, ë).
“We are supporting Ontario’s Francophone community and improving their experience when accessing vital government services throughout the province, including health care,” said Jones. “Franco-Ontarians can now have their name correctly identified on their health card in addition to their driver’s licence and photo card.”
In Sept. 2020, the Ontario government added French accents to Ontario driver’s licence cards and Ontario Photo cards.
“Ontario is committed to building an inclusive province where everyone belongs, and where culture and diversity are respected,” said Michael Ford, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “We are pleased that French language characters are now available on all commonly used Ontario government identification.”
Ontarians are reminded to check their health cards in case they have expired and can conveniently renew their cards online at Ontario.ca/Renew or book an in-person meeting at Ontario.ca/Appointment. Individuals experiencing difficulties with renewing their health card should contact ServiceOntario at 1-866-532-3161 (TTY: 1-800-387-5559) to inquire about options for their specific situation.
“We are making life easier for Ontarians by delivering simpler, faster, and more inclusive services,” said Kaleed Rasheed, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery. “Ontario’s Francophone community can now conveniently access vital documents that reflect their unique identity through ServiceOntario centres across our province.”
