February 12, 1996
(Health)

Home Support Program reviewed

Some clients of the home support program currently receiving more than the $2,100 per month allocation will continue to be funded at their current levels depending on their assessed needs, Health Minister Lloyd Matthews announced today following a series of discussions with both recipients and providers of home support services. The $2,100 limit remains in effect for new clients to the program.

"After consulting with various groups on the operational issues of the program, we have listened to suggestions brought forward by concerned individuals with a view to implementing those that are reasonable and in the best interest of the client," said Mr. Matthews. "In the case of those people already receiving more than $2,100 per month in home support services, we will be reviewing those clients on an individual basis so that we can meet their needs in the most compassionate and appropriate manner." The minister said some of these individuals have made decisions and investments based on expectations they would live out their final years in their own homes. "It may be an inappropriate response to disrupt their lifestyles at this stage. We will now move forward by reviewing these clients and considering the social implications of imposing funding restrictions on individuals and couples accustomed to receiving a certain level of support."

The minister re-affirmed government's decision to implement limitations of $2,100 per month for all new clients to the home support program. "With the $2,100 per month funding allocation, Newfoundland and Labrador has one of the most comprehensive home support programs in all of Canada, providing the second highest level of funding," said Mr. Matthews. "The home support program is intended to offer minimal assistance to individuals living in their homes and supplement the support provided to families. That is the approach that government has taken and that will continue as we accept new clients to the program."

A continuum of continuing care exists for the elderly from home support, personal care homes and nursing homes. The appropriate use of health resources along the continuum of continuing care is essential to ensure stability and accessibility of those resources in future.

NOTE TO EDITORS:    Mr. Matthews will be available to answer any
                    questions on this decision at 2 p.m. today (February
                    12) at the Department of Health, Main Floor, West
                    Block, Confederation Building.

Contact: Jill Sooley, Director of Public Relations, (709) 729-1377.