Vast majority of Canadians alarmed about COVID-19 strain on healthcare system: poll

By CityNews Staff

Almost half of Canadians are worried about not being able to receive proper care if they get sick, due to the strain the Omicron COVID-19 variant is having on the healthcare system, according to a new poll.

The new survey from Maru Public Opinion found the vast majority — over 80 per cent — of those polled are alarmed about the impact of the Omicron virus on their local healthcare system and hospitals.

According to the poll, most Canadians were aware of the local hospital staffing shortages caused by the virus as many deal with unplanned absences.

Ontario has attempted to alleviate some of the absences by shortening the quarantine period to five days and allowing health care workers with international credits to work.

Almost 40 per cent of those polled knew someone who has had treatment for serious medical issues postponed, while 33 per cent knew someone who wasn’t able to receive treatment at all.

The Ontario government issued a directive earlier this month pausing all non-emergent surgeries and procedures, adding to the huge surgical backlog in the province. The pause is expected to add 8,000 to 10,000 surgeries per week while it’s in effect.

Four-in-ten Canadians also indicated they don’t have confidence that if they needed medical care in their local hospital right now that they could be admitted for a few days of treatment.

The fear of COVID-19 has also led to many not seeking treatment when needed. According to the survey, one in four people has deliberately avoided going to their doctor’s office in the last three months because they were worried about catching COVID.

Another 17 per cent reported they have a medical condition that has worsened over the past three months because they have not been able to go and see a health professional due to COVID-19.

The poll was conducted on Jan. 7 using 1,513 randomly selected Canadian adults who are Maru Voice Canada online panellists and has a margin of error of +/- 2.5 per cent, 19 times out of 20.

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