Addressing stigma in Canada’s health system is critical for improving health outcomes

“The widespread presence of stigma and discrimination within and outside of the health system results in Canada being a country where not every person has the ability to reach their full health potential,” Ian Culbert Executive Director, Canadian Public Health Association said. “Those of us in the health and social services sector – in fact all Canadians – need to reflect on our own personal attitudes and beliefs and our employers need to review the systems that reinforce stigma and discrimination so that we can reduce health inequities in our society.”