Government builds on commitment to personal care homes

Health and Community Services Minister Julie Bettney said government is continuing its commitment to provide increased funding to personal care homes and clients. In Budget 2001-2002, government will provide a further investment of $1.3 million to increase rates and the number of subsidies for individuals.

"This is the second consecutive year government has provided increased funding to individuals needing long-term care and to the facilities which provide it," said Minister Bettney. "This additional funding in 2001-2002 matches government�s investment in Budget 2000. Government will now spend $12 million annually to subsidize the personal care home sector."

At the same time as this new investment is being made, the Department of Health and Community Services is working with the Clinical Epidemiology Division of Memorial University to determine the long-term care needs of the province up to the year 2006.

"We continue to work with personal care home operators and regional boards to develop a comprehensive plan to address the needs of this component of the long-term care sector," said Minister Bettney. "Our plan will be based on client choice and equity, provide options in a variety of services and will result in a natural continuation of care."

Media contact: Carmel Parsons, Communications (709) 729-1377.

2001 03 22           4:15 p.m.