Federal mental health report highlights critical need for collaboration between public and private sectors

News Release

(Toronto, December 12, 2025) The release of the Public Private Insurers System Capacity Roundtable: Summary Report highlights the critical need for collaboration between public and private sectors to address system challenges, drive innovation, and deliver seamless, equitable mental health and substance use health services for Canadians. The report is a result of roundtable discussions convened by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, which the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) participated in.

“Collaboration across sectors is essential to strengthening workforce capacity and ensuring Canadians receive the mental health support they need,” said Sheila Burns, Director of Health and Disability Policy, CLHIA. “By working together, we can develop innovative, tailored solutions that support access and improve outcomes for patients in communities across Canada.”

With publicly funded mental health services being only a part of the overall picture in Canada, advancing equitable access requires a coordinated approach across both public and private sectors. In 2023, 75 per cent of Canadians had access to privately funded health insurance, with over $730 million paid out in mental health supports—more than double the amount in 2019.

As Chair of the Mental Health Committee at the CLHIA, Georgia Pomaki joined the discussions focused on challenges, gaps, and opportunities for cross-sectoral collaboration.

“It has been a privilege to contribute to this important initiative, and I look forward to continuing the dialogue and advancing the opportunities for cross-sector collaboration highlighted in the report,” said Dr. Pomaki.

As mental healthcare continues to evolve, the role of innovative technologies, including virtual care, are increasingly important in providing Canadians with greater convenience, improved access, and more personalized support.

The CLHIA remains committed to continued collaboration with public and private stakeholders to build a stronger, more integrated mental healthcare system.

For more information:
Tom Hansen
Senior Manager, Communications and Public Affairs
thansen@clhia.ca