February 15, 2008
The McGuinty Government Expanding
Long Term Health Care in Ontario
Mario Sergio, MPP York West – Our Government is committed to the residents and the families of
those
dependent on long-term care in the province of Ontario. We understand that there is still much work to
do to improve the conditions, and we are making enormous strides to ensure that our loved ones get the
proper care and dignity they so rightfully deserve.
Since taking office, we have funded 6,100 new staff, including 2,300 nurses in long-term care homes.
We have also created an action line for those who are concerned about the level of care they are receiving.
If you are in a home and would like information, please call 1-800-387-5559.
The McGuinty government has passed bill 140, which will provide protection for whistle blowers who
report abuse or neglect. The bill requires homes to meet staffing and care requirements. To do this, our government has appointed Shirlee Sharkey, president and CEO of St. Elizabeth Health Centre, to consult
with LTC home residents and their families, as well as stakeholders and experts and provide advice and
best practices concerning staffing and care standards. The report is expected be received by the McGuinty government in April of this year.
Starting in April of this year, the McGuinty government is introducing its first round of funding for the
Aging at Home Strategy with a total investment of $702 million towards seniors living independently at
home. Such services will include meals, transportation, shopping, snow shoveling, friendly home calling,
adult day programs, homemaking services and caregiver supports. For more information on this innovative program, please refer to the ministry of health press release:
Once again, our government has made the welfare of seniors in the province of Ontario a priority
and our innovative initiatives and investments offer new and limitless possibilities for our seniors and
their loved ones.
Sincerely,
Mario Sergio, MPP
York West
