EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Bill proclaims the third week of June in each year as Health Professionals’ Week.

Bill 72 2023

An Act to proclaim the third week in June as Health Professionals’ Week

Preamble

The backbone of our health care system in Ontario is its people — the tens of thousands of professionals who show up every minute, every hour, and every day to deliver exceptional patient care. These heroes use their experience, training and compassion to look after others without consideration of weather or holidays. They regularly accept shifts during nights and weekends which take them away from their families, but ensure that patients receive the 24/7 care that they require.

Our health care system is stronger because of their service and sacrifice.

This army of quiet professionals spans over 250 different occupations, all of whom contribute in different ways. Some are on the front lines in direct patient contact — respiratory therapists, social workers, dietitians, paramedics and personal support workers, for example. Others toil quietly in the background in roles that are no less important — clerks, lab technologists and technicians, pharmacy technicians and medical radiation technologists, among others. No matter their title or how much direct patient contact they have, every single one plays a vital role in ensuring patients get the care they need.

Every single one deserves to be recognized and celebrated.

Health Professionals’ Week is intended to honour these selfless individuals and provide an opportunity to celebrate the massive collective impact they all have in ensuring the health and well-being of everyone in Ontario.

Therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Health Professionals’ Week

1 The third week of June in each year is proclaimed as Health Professionals’ Week.

Commencement

2 This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

3 The short title of this Act is the Health Professionals’ Week Act, 2023.