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Public Information Health Care Providers News Media Text Only Version |
October 3, 2006 TORONTO – The McGuinty government is enhancing the quality of life for residents of long-term care homes by introducing new legislation that, if passed, would strengthen enforcement and improve care and accountability, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced today. "The McGuinty government is working to ensure our families and loved ones living in long-term care homes across Ontario are cared for safely and with dignity," Smitherman said. "In Ontario, the only acceptable standard of long-term care is a high standard. This legislation would give families and friends the confidence that residents have the best possible quality of life." Highlights of the proposed Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2006, include :
"This is about improving the health and quality of life of people living in long-term care homes," said Monique Smith, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health, who presented Commitment to Care : A Plan for Long-Term Care in Ontario in May 2004. "There are 618 long-term care homes in Ontario that are homes for our parents, grandparents, and other loved ones. They deserve the best possible care." "We are pleased that the LTC legislation is finally being introduced," said Lois Dent, President of Concerned Friends of Ontario Citizens in Care Facilities. "We recognize that a lot of hard work has gone into developing this Act, a great deal of consultation took place, and it appears that the result reflects a resident-centred approach." The Commitment to Care Report formed the basis for legislative change. In the fall of 2004 the government released a discussion paper entitled Future Directions for Legislation Governing Long-Term Care Homes. The paper was distributed broadly across the province to stakeholders and more than 700 individuals and organizations responded to the paper in writing or through public meetings held in various locations around the province. This input is reflected in the proposed legislation. Today's announcement is just one example of how the McGuinty government is on the side of Ontario families concerned about quality care in long-term care homes. Other Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care initiatives include :
Today's announcement 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 media :
Members of the general public : 1-800-291-1405
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