Health Canada uses new “social” funding model to support blood pressure program
TORONTO — The federal government is experimenting with a relatively new funding model to kick-start a program aimed at helping older Canadians in Ontario and British Columbia manage high blood pressure.
Health Minister Jane Philpott has announced a plan to invest in the community hypertension prevention initiative, using a so-called Social Impact Bond to make the $4 million investment.
It’s the first time Ottawa has used the funding mechanism to support a public health program.
Only about 60 such bonds have been issued globally since the concept was first introduced six years ago.