Funding to improve care of BC seniors still coming
Posted January 16, 2018 6:35 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) – The Premier is again promising money is on the way to improve the care of BC seniors both at home and in residential facilities across the province.
John Horgan is responding to concerns raised about $45 million that should have already been spent.
“Well, I certainly know that it’s a significant issue for those who are providing care and those who are receiving care. Saw through the senior’s report that nine out of ten care facilities are understaffed. We need to address that and we’re committed to doing so.”
On Monday, NEWS 1130 reported concerns raised by the BC Care Providers Association about $45 million committed last year to hire at least 1,500 more workers.
Health Minister Adrian Dix admits it’s taking longer than expected to deliver that funding, but he’s blaming what he calls years of neglect by the former government.
“At the end of 16 years of Liberal government, 90 per cent of care beds were below provincial standard and that was a significant issue identified by the seniors’ advocate. A few weeks before the election, after 16 years in office, the Liberals put forward a plan which was mostly a press release and little substance.”
Dix adds many current care providers will soon retire.
“This is not just an issue of dollars and cents. It’s an issue of people ultimately. You can have every intention to meet standards, but if you can’t find the people to fill the positions, then the quality of care isn’t going to improve… More than a quarter to one-third –in that range– are over 55. We need to replace many current care aides who will be retiring. This is a real human resource challenge, but the money’s there and we’re proceeding.”
He adds more details will be released next week in Surrey when he’s the keynote speaker at an event hosted by the BC Care Providers Association.
