November 13, 1996
(Health)

St. John's Nursing Home Board named

Health Minister Lloyd Matthews today named the membership of the new nursing home board for St. John's. The board comprises 16 members, two representing each of the six existing nursing homes in the city, in addition to four at large members.

Dr. Len Williams will act as chair of the new board. Dr. Williams has held many professional and academic posts throughout his career. He is recognized nationally and internationally for his role as an educator and an administrator within the social sector. Other at large members include Charlie Rennie, current chair of the St. John's Nursing Home Council, Gertrude Elton and Margaret Munch.

The other members represent each of the individual nursing homes. Representing Agnes Pratt are Reginald Bowring and John Baker, representing Glenbrook Lodge are Mary Andrews and Thomas Benson, representing Masonic Park are Wayne Guinchard and William Noseworthy, representing Saint Luke's Home are Sandra Chaytor and Norman Williams, representing St. Patrick's Mercy Home are Andrew Grant and Sister Nellie Pomroy and the Hoyles Escasoni Complex will be represented by Eric Hutchings and Barbara Slattery.

Mr. Matthews says a single board structure will mean savings of between $1 million and $1.5 million over the next three years. "Consolidating the six existing administrative structures will reduce duplication and increase efficiencies in the nursing home sector. At the same time we want to ensure the traditions and the identities of each of the existing facilities are maintained through equal representation on the new board."

Dr. Williams acknowledged that the governance of nursing homes in St. John's is a challenging new role. "Our focus will be on meeting client and public expectations, enhancing quality of life and ensuring the effective use of resources," said Dr. Williams.

The new board will officially assume responsibility for all aspects of nursing home care in St. John's in the new year.

Contact: Jill Sooley, (709) 729-1377.