Nova Scotians Closer to More Long-Term-Care Beds

Nova Scotians are another step closer to more long-term-care beds.

On April 5, the province issued part one of a request for proposal for 804 new long-term-care beds. The completed process will close on Thursday, August 23, at 2 p.m. The results are expected in the fall.

"These new beds will help more seniors stay closer to their loved ones," said Health Minister Chris d'Entremont. "I am extremely pleased this project is moving forward on time."

All interested and qualified parties are invited to reply to the request for proposal, which is being released in three parts. The first outlines the locations of the beds, response requirements, and the assessment process. Part two, which will be released on Wednesday, June 13, will provide draft information on design, space, program and financial requirements. Part three will be released on Wednesday, July 25, and will include final information on the elements included in part two.

The request for proposal can be found on the Nova Scotia Procurement Tender Website. Those interested in responding should monitor the site for additional information. Information sessions will also be held to help those interested in responding better understand the process. Sessions are scheduled in Truro on Thursday, June 14, and Thursday, July 26, to correspond with the release of parts two and three.

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.

More information on the strategy and the request for proposal process is available on the website www.gov.ns.ca/health/ccs/ccs_strategy/default.htm . For a copy of the request for proposal see the website www.gov.ns.ca/tenders/ .