In a significant move to address healthcare challenges and ensure Albertans receive the right care in appropriate settings, Premier Danielle Smith, alongside Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange and Minister of Seniors, Community, and Social Services Jason Nixon, announced substantial investments in continuing care during Budget 2024.
Premier Smith commenced the press conference by emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing accessible and quality healthcare to all Albertans. With a record investment of $26.2 billion in healthcare, including primary healthcare enhancements and workforce expansion, the government aims to improve healthcare capacity and reduce wait times.
Minister LaGrange echoed Premier Smith’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Albertans receive care in the most suitable setting. She highlighted the challenges faced by patients awaiting discharge from hospitals and stressed the need for timely transitions to continuing care or community support services.
The pressing issue of alternative level of care (ALC) patients, who remain in hospitals despite not requiring acute care, was underscored. Minister LaGrange revealed that approximately 1,500 Albertans are waiting to be moved from hospital beds, with some experiencing delays due to financial or legal barriers.
Budget 2024 includes a substantial investment of $1.7 billion in continuing care, aimed at addressing these challenges. This funding will support the creation of over 1,600 new continuing care spaces and innovative models of care tailored to diverse needs, including small homes and culturally appropriate spaces for Indigenous communities.
Moreover, Minister Nixon highlighted the collaborative efforts between ministries to facilitate patient transitions from acute care to appropriate settings. Teams comprising various divisions within the Ministry of Seniors, Community, and Social Services are working with Alberta Health Services to connect patients with essential supports, including housing and community-based care.
The Alberta Continuing Care Association, under the leadership of Chair, expressed strong support for the government’s recent initiatives in healthcare. Describing these efforts as a notable milestone, the association commended the substantial investments made in continuing care. They emphasized the critical importance of ensuring equitable access to care for all Albertans, reflecting the shared commitment to fostering a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every citizen.
During the question and answer session, Minister LaGrange addressed concerns about the timeline for implementing hours of care standards, highlighting ongoing efforts to increase care hours while ensuring a sufficient workforce. Premier Smith emphasized the collaborative approach between ministries to tackle complex healthcare challenges effectively.
The government’s announcement regarding investments in continuing care represents a significant step towards addressing healthcare challenges in Alberta. As with any large-scale healthcare reform, ongoing evaluation and adaptation will be crucial to ensuring that the needs of Albertans are met effectively and efficiently.