Ontario’s Epilepsy Crisis: A Preventable Strain on Our Healthcare System
In Ontario, 95,000 people live with epilepsy, and every year, thousands make unnecessary visits to hospital Emergency Rooms. These visits often happen due to a lack of understanding about seizure first aid and when ER care is actually needed. The result? Increased pressure on Ontario’s already overburdened healthcare system—and millions of dollars in avoidable costs.
It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way.
Epilepsy Ontario has submitted a pre-budget request to the provincial government, calling for a $11 million investment over 4 years to support epilepsy education programs across the province.
This funding would:
Support and expand existing education programs at Community Epilepsy Agencies
Deliver crucial information about seizure first aid and when to seek ER care—and when not to
Extend education services to underserved regions without a local epilepsy agency
By helping people better understand epilepsy and how to respond to seizures, we can reduce unnecessary ER visits—saving money and improving care for everyone.
Investing in People, Not Just Emergencies
In addition, we’ve asked the government for $1 million in annual funding to help Community Epilepsy Agencies support individuals and families with more complex needs, such as mental health challenges or co-existing conditions. This would ensure more Ontarians with epilepsy can manage their health effectively and live well in their communities.
How You Can Help
You can make a difference. Show your support for epilepsy education funding by:
✉️ Sending a letter to the Minister of Health and Minister of Finance
📞 Contacting your local MPP to express your support for this funding request
(Not sure who your MPP is? Find them here)
Together, we can make Ontario a safer, more informed, and more compassionate place for those living with epilepsy.
