What Is Health Canada?

While each Canadian province and territory is responsible for providing health care to their respective populations, the federal government of Canada is responsible for the preservation and advancement of the health care system and the promotion of health of all Canadians. Health Canada is a federal institution that administers standards of medical service established by the Canada Health Act. It aims to maintain and improve the health of all Canadians while also respecting individual choice and circumstances.

History

The Department of Health was created in 1919. It merged with the Department of Soldiers’ Civil Re-establishment to form the Department of Pensions and National Health in 1928. In 1944, it became the Department of National Health and Welfare, and in June 1993, it took the name it’s known for today, Health Canada.

Mission

Health Canada’s mission is for Canada to be among the nations with the healthiest people in the world. To achieve this goal, the institution relies on quality scientific research and data.

Responsibilities

Health Canada encourages Canadians to play an active role in their health. The institution also promotes the modernization of the health care system and provides information about disease prevention, food and nutrition, environmental and workplace health, product safety, drug and health products, and health research.

Health Canada also regulates products such as medications, medical devices, vaccinations, natural health products, pesticides, consumer products, cannabis, and food. It recalls products that may have a negative effect on the health of Canadians.

Health Canada is a global health leader. It provides policy leadership in cooperation with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Public Health Agency of Canada. The institute is recognized worldwide and cooperates with other countries to promote health and wellness.

Additional resource: Canadian Encyclopedia