Strengthening Long Term Care Requires More than New Enforcement Tools
TORONTO, Sept. 28, 2017 /CNW/ - AdvantAge Ontario supports the new enforcement measures announced yesterday that target long term care homes that repeatedly do not comply with legislative requirements but warns that more must be done to support the vast majority of homes that are in compliance but struggling to meet the care needs of residents.
"Our Association has always supported measures to ensure that seniors get the best care possible wherever they live," said Robert Morton, Interim CEO of AdvantAge Ontario. "We want to see all homes performing well and these new tools will appropriately target situations where there are repeated issues."
The Strengthening Quality and Accountability for Patients Act, 2017, an omnibus bill introduced yesterday by Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, proposes changes to the Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2007, that would introduce new enforcement tools, including financial penalties, and new provincial offences to ensure homes are addressing concerns promptly.
"We have consistently called for a more risk-based approach to long term care home inspections that targets issues directly impacting resident care and safety so these changes are an important step forward," added Morton.
However, AdvantAge Ontario remains concerned that government action is urgently needed to address the critical staffing and resource issues that are challenging homes in their ability to consistently deliver high quality care to residents.
"New measures to target poor performers is important but the government must prioritize long term care investments to ensure appropriate support for our frail and elderly," warned Morton.
Long term care homes serve one of the most vulnerable groups in society. Many come directly from hospitals with very complex care requirements as well as advanced forms of dementia and responsive behaviours. Seniors being admitted from the community also have highly complex and heavy care needs because they are staying in their own homes for as long as possible.
"We will continue to ask that the Minister turn his attention to the critical system issues that must be addressed to ensure our long term care homes have the staff and resources to provide the needed level of care," added Morton.
AdvantAge Ontario is the trusted voice for senior care. We are community-based, not-for-profit organizations dedicated to supporting the best possible aging experience.
SOURCE AdvantAge Ontario
Debbie Humphreys, Senior Director, Corporate and Public Affairs, 416.553.7401, [email protected]
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