Let regionalization continue to evolve

This commentary provides a practical perspective on the benefits of regionalization within the context of the lead paper by Lewis and Kouri. Discussion of the best structure of health systems needs to take into account the reality that constitutional and funding responsibility--and therefore accountability--for our healthcare system lies with provincial governments. Accountability at the provincial government level is simply a part of regionalization and should be expected by health system managers. Regionalization of healthcare is in its infancy. Systems necessary to support regionalization, which can only be established under a regionalized structure (e.g., information technology, procurement, human resources and service planning), are evolving. Given the size and complexity of the healthcare system, as we gain more experience with regionalization the systems we need to support it will attain their potential, as will the managers of the system. Regionalization was the most appropriate option for healthcare in the 1990s given the objectives of provincial governments to achieve efficiencies, better utilize resources and improve patient care. We must allow regionalization to evolve in order to see long-term improvements in the healthcare system.