Canadian premiers from Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Manitoba have called on the federal government to reinstate the 50/50 funding split for healthcare, a model that was in place until the 1970s.

The current Canadian Health Transfer provides provinces with approximately 22% of health-care funding, which premiers argue is insufficient given rising healthcare costs and demographic challenges like an aging population and higher rates of chronic disease.P.E.I.

Premier Rob Lantz emphasized that healthcare is a 'nation-building project' and highlighted the need for improved access to primary care and workforce retention.

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew linked the funding request to broader economic competitiveness, noting that Canada's healthcare system contributes to longer life expectancy compared to the U.S.

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt tied health-care investment to economic growth, stating that a healthy workforce is essential for national development.

The premiers’ demand has grown from 35% in 2022 to an unspecified higher percentage, reflecting increasing pressure on Ottawa to address funding disparities and support provincial healthcare systems.