Service NL
June 11, 2015

Enhancing Oversight of Personal Care Homes

Minister of Service NL Responds to Auditor General's Recommendations for Inspections

The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL, acknowledged recommendations in the Auditor General's annual report today regarding inspections carried out at personal care homes. Minister Crummell noted that while these facilities are inspected at least once a year per established operating standards, inspection programs can always be enhanced, and the Auditor General's recommendations will contribute to achieving continuous improvement.

"Personal care homes must meet the daily needs of individuals who can no longer live independently, and so it is important for residents and their families to have confidence that service is provided in an acceptable manner. Our government is committed to ensuring a high standard of operation at all these facilities through our inspection process, and is already working through the Department of Health and Community Services and regional health authorities to enhance our approach and adopt the Auditor General's recommendations."
- The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL

In response to recommendations by the Auditor General, Service NL is reviewing the record keeping and reporting methods used when assessing facilities, reviewing training for inspectors, and establishing a formal process of grouping inspection concerns by priority and setting fixed timelines to address them. In the past year, the department has also increased the number of staff in certain areas of the province to maintain its inspection schedule.

The Provincial Government is committed to providing efficient and effective delivery of key programs and services that protect the health and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

QUICK FACTS

• The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL, acknowledged the recommendations listed in the Auditor General's annual report today regarding the inspection of personal care homes and noted the recommendations are being adopted.
• Service NL conducted more than 150 environmental health inspections on personal care homes, long-term care homes, and community care homes throughout the province last year.
• Service NL also conducted 165 fire and life safety inspections on these facilities last year.

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Media contact:

Jason Card Director of Communications Service NL 709-729-4860, 699-0470 jasoncard@gov.nl.ca

2015 06 11                              3:50 p.m.