2016 Census coming in May

The next census of the population in Canada will take place in May 2016. Enumerators from Statistics Canada have already started contacting VCH facilities regarding the collection of information. The census work affects mainly facilities where patients live, but other sites will be contacted as well.

About the census

The census collects information on every man, woman and child living in Canada. Participation is required by law. Governments rely on census data for the planning of programs and services. Provincial governments may use census information to determine which social programs are most needed. Municipalities and non-profit organizations may use the data to align services with populations. Find out more about the 2016 Census at Statistics Canada.

Census in health care

In health care, census workers may need to collect information about patients, residents and employees. Enumerators have already started contacting health facilities to determine contacts for information gathering. Anyone living at a health facility must be counted in the census. This includes patients, residents, and employees who live on-site and their family members living with them. To determine the type of resident, enumerators will need to confirm dates of admission and if residents have another address in Canada. To find out who’s included in the census visit the Statistics Canada website.

More information

These information packages from Statistics Canada have been shared with VCH leaders:

Census contact information package (Residential care facility, such as a group home for persons with disabilities or addictions) C-30-E

Census contact information package (Nursing home and or residence for senior citizens) Form C-20-E

Census contact information package (Hospital) Form C-10-E