Valley Nursing Home Beds Improve Seniors' Care, Free Up Hospital Beds

HEALTH--Valley Nursing Home Beds Improve Seniors' Care, Free Up Hospital Beds

Thirty-two more nursing home beds in the Annapolis Valley will free up hospital beds, reduce wait times for some hospital services, and provide more appropriate care for seniors.

Premier John Hamm said today, Nov. 20, that the additional beds are a part of government's plan -- Your Health Matters -- to improve care for seniors and for hospital patients in the Annapolis Valley.

"Seniors deserve the best care and as a government we're working hard to see that they get that care," said Premier Hamm. "Today's announcement is an important step forward in giving peace of mind to Valley seniors and their families."

Annapolis Valley Health has been challenged to manage their patient needs as seniors in hospital waited for nursing home space. This has limited the number of beds available to hospital patients. These new nursing home beds will help seniors get the level of care they need and help the health district.

The beds will be added to Grand View Manor in Berwick in April 2004. This site has space available and can be renovated quickly. A vacant apartment unit on the site will be converted for long- term care use. Grand View Manor will invite tenders for the work.

"This change will also support the doctors, nurses and other health care workers in the Annapolis Valley," said Mr. Hamm. "They are to be applauded for providing exceptional care for seniors and their continuous dedication for all of their patients."

"Patients awaiting long-term placement deserve all the expertise and special programs long-term care is able to provide," said Anne McGuire, CEO for Annapolis Valley Health. "Acute care settings are geared to provide a different level of care. For staff and doctors trying to meet such diverse needs, it is frustrating and stressful so we are pleased to see more nursing home beds opening in our community."

Earlier this year, government announced funding to begin a study on health care needs in the Annapolis Valley. In the new year, the Department of Health will also undertake provincewide consultations which will result in a provincial plan for seniors' care.