One of Canada’s most respected visionary politicians
The Honourable Thomas "Tommy" Douglas envisioned, built and tirelessly promoted our national system of healthcare. His proposal in 1959 for a universal, pre-paid and publicly administered health care system in Saskatchewan introduced the first program of its kind in North America. The Saskatchewan plan prompted the federal government to initiate a national strategy to subsidize socialized medicine and support provinces in the shift to a universal system.
Throughout his long career, Tommy Douglas spearheaded many more innovative and pioneering programs that improved the economy in Saskatchewan. His government established provincial air and bus lines, introduced collective bargaining and created many official panels and governing bodies including lumber, fish and marketing boards. His immense impact extended beyond Saskatchewan, and ultimately benefited all Canadians.