Nova Scotians One Step Closer to More Long-term-Care Beds
Nova Scotians are one step closer to having more long-term-care beds.
In an update on the province's Continuing Care Strategy, Premier Rodney MacDonald and Health Minister Chris d'Entremont today, Feb. 1, outlined where 832 new long-term-care beds will be located. The premier and health minister also announced nine aging, long-term-care facilities will be replaced, and 46 beds will be fast-tracked to help relieve current pressures.
"Last spring, we outlined a strategy to build a long-term-care system that meets the needs and reflects the values of Nova Scotians," said Premier MacDonald. "It is a plan that allows Nova Scotians to live well in a place they can call home. "We are turning that plan into reality."
Research and consultation were used to calculate demand and determine where the 832 new beds are most needed.
The new long-term-care beds will be divided among the province's health districts as follows:
- South Shore, 115 beds
- South West, 52 beds
- Annapolis Valley, 124 beds
- Colchester East Hants, 213 beds
- Cumberland, 82 beds
- Guysborough/Antigonish, 40 beds
- Cape Breton, 88 beds
- Capital Health, 118 beds
The process to decide where the beds will be located considered population trends, the number of people waiting at home and in hospital for long-term-care beds, the health of seniors and demand for, and supply of, long-term-care services.
Contracts for the new beds will be awarded in a request-for-proposal process that will begin in April.
"Waiting in hospital for a long-term-care bed is difficult on patients and their families. It also puts additional pressure on facilities and health-care staff," said Mr. d'Entremont. "Part of the strategy is identifying and implementing solutions to ease current pressures and bridge the gap until the 832 new long-term-care beds are ready."
In July, 40 new beds will open in the Capital Health District on a converted floor of Northwood Manor. To provide services for those with acquired brain injuries, the province has also reached an agreement for six beds at Peter's Place in Pleasantville.
Replacement of the nine aging, long-term-care facilities will be completed no later than 2010.
The Continuing Care Strategy is a 10-year plan to enhance and expand Nova Scotia's continuing-care system. By building on community support, increasing local solutions, and ensuring care options are available when and where they are needed, the strategy aims to create a system that supports Nova Scotians in their desire to live well in a place they can call home.
For more information see the website at www.gov.ns.ca/health/ccs/ccs_strategy .