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Citizens' Council

The Ontario government has appointed 25 Ontarians from all walks of life to participate in a Citizens’ Council. They will discuss and provide their opinions on the values that reflect the needs, culture and attitudes of Ontario citizens about government drug policy in the province.

What is the Citizens’ Council?

The Ontario Citizens’ Council is a new advisory body to the Executive Officer of Ontario’s Public Drug Programs and the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care - it is the first of its kind in Canada, and one of only a handful in the world.

The Citizens’ Council seeks to meaningfully engage ordinary citizens on an on-going basis in discussions about specific policy questions related to the province’s public drug programs.

What will the Council discuss?

The Citizens’ Council will focus on topics related to Ontario’s prescription drug programs. The topic discussed at the first Council meeting related to drug treatment for rare diseases.

How often will Council members meet?

The Council will meet two times a year for 2 to 3 days at a time. The Council met for an Orientation Meeting in November 2009; the First Meeting took place in January 2010.

Do Council members need to know anything about Ontario’s drug programs or have any expertise in this field?

No. Council members are not expected to be knowledgeable in this field and will be briefed by experts on the topics at hand. Then, Council members will bring their own values and opinions to the table.

What will be the outcome of the Council?

Following the previous Council meeting, a report based on the Council’s discussions has been presented to the Executive Officer (EO) of the Ontario Public Drug Programs and soon will be available publically. The EO will also provide feedback outlining how the advice will be used.