Manitoba Moves Closer to Legislating Patient Transparency with Debbie’s Law
WINNIPEG — Bill 226, The Health System Governance and Accountability Amendment Act (Reporting When Timely Care Not Available)—or Debbie’s Law—passed second reading today in the Manitoba Legislature.
The bill, introduced by Roblin MLA Kathleen Cook, PC Critic for Health, requires health authorities to notify patients when life-saving care cannot be provided within medically recommended time frames, give patients out-of-province care options when waits in Manitoba are too long, and mandates reporting of all patient deaths linked to healthcare delays for life-saving procedures.
“Debbie’s Law ensures Manitobans aren’t left in the dark when life-saving care isn’t available on time,” said Cook. “This is about transparency and accountability. Debbie’s law is common-sense, patient-first policy. It’s exactly what Manitobans are asking for from our healthcare system.”
The bill is named in honor of Debbie Fewster, who tragically passed away in 2024 due to delays in urgent cardiac care.
“This bill means no other family will be left wondering if more honesty could have saved their loved one,” said Colleen Dyck, Debbie Fewster’s daughter. “Debbie’s Law is about truth, dignity, and giving patients and families the power to make informed decisions when time matters most. Our mom would be so proud to see this step forward. We’re grateful to work collaboratively with political leaders in Manitoba on this legislation.”
“We trusted the system to save our mom, and it failed her,” said Daniel Fewster, Debbie’s son. “With Debbie’s Law, we can start fixing what’s broken. It brings the transparency families need and deserve. If this law saves just one life, it’s worth it.”
With Bill 226 now through second reading, Cook is urging the NDP government to send it to committee immediately and without delay.
“Manitobans deserve a healthcare system that is transparent, accountable, and honest,” Cook emphasized. “Let’s get Debbie’s law to committee and passed into law without any delay from the NDP government.”
PC Caucus encourages all Manitobans to register to speak to the bill at committee, and let the premier and health minister know how much Manitoba needs this legislation.
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For media inquiries, please contact PCCaucus_Media@leg.gov.mb.ca