The Federal Framework on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act (Bill C-211) mandates the Minister of Health to develop a federal framework for addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Act recognizes the need for timely access to PTSD support, especially for first responders, firefighters, military personnel, corrections officers, and RCMP members. It highlights the lack of a coordinated national strategy to expand support and ensure long-term solutions for Canadians suffering from PTSD.
The Act requires the Minister of Health to convene a conference within 12 months, bringing together the Minister of National Defence, the Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, provincial and territorial health representatives, medical community members, and patient groups. The purpose is to develop a comprehensive federal framework concerning improved tracking of PTSD incidence rates, establishment of guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and management of PTSD, the sharing of best practices across Canada, and the creation and distribution of standardized educational materials for healthcare providers to increase national awareness, diagnosis, treatment, and management of PTSD.
The Minister must prepare a report outlining the federal framework and present it to Parliament within 18 months after the Act comes into force. The report will also be published on the Public Health Agency of Canada's website within 30 days of being presented to Parliament. Furthermore, the Public Health Agency of Canada is required to review the effectiveness of the framework within five years of the report's publication and present its findings to Parliament within the following 10 sitting days.
Crime
The bill addresses PTSD, which can affect first responders, firefighters, military personnel, corrections officers, and RCMP members. By improving access to care and support, it could indirectly contribute to public safety.