September 29, 2006

TRENTON – The McGuinty government is increasing access to long-term care services for residents in Quinte West by seeking applications from long-term care home operators to develop more beds in the area, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced today.

"Quinte West is an area that needs more quality long-term care beds to address the needs of their growing and aging population," Smitherman said. "Our government is committed to finding interested long-term home operators who can come forward with plans that will provide area residents with the high quality of life they deserve."

The government is seeking applications to develop 64 long-term care beds for Quinte West.

"This is very welcome news for the citizens of Quinte West," said Lou Rinaldi, MPP for Northumberland. "More members of our community will be able to stay in Quinte West with these new long-term care supports, surrounded by the readily available care and love of their families. Senior members of our communities deserve the security of knowing that options for staying close to home in their golden years are there when they are needed."

Operators have until November 10 to submit their applications with the government announcing the successful applicants in early December. Applications will be evaluated based on the operator's financial capacity, operational experience and ability to bring new beds in operation by December 2009.

This is just the latest example of how the McGuinty government is working to improve access to health care services for seniors in Ontario. Other recent initiatives include :

• Investing $87.8 million to improve home care and community support services
• Providing $30 million to implement the Caplan report recommendations on CCACs.

Today's initiative is part of the McGuinty government's plan for innovation in public health care, building a system that delivers on three priorities - keeping Ontarians healthy, reducing wait times and providing better access to doctors and nurses.

For further information :

Members of the general public : (416) 327-4327, or (800) 268-1154

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