Chester Gillan, Minister of Health and Minister of Social Services and Seniors, today provided an update on the implementation of significant changes to the Long Term Nursing Care program. As of January 1, 2007, government will be funding basic health care costs for all residents in long term nursing care facilities. Residents will continue to be responsible for paying the accommodation portion of long term care as well as personal expenses.
Individuals who do not have sufficient income to pay for the accommodation portion of the cost will be able to apply for financial assistance. As of January 1, 2007, eligibility for financial assistance will be based on assessment of income rather than on the applicant’s total financial resources or general assets.
Minister Gillan said, “For residents currently in a long term care nursing facility, their financial arrangement will remain in place until staff have had the opportunity to reassess their individual situation. Any adjustments identified in this reassessment process will be retroactive to January 1, 2007.”
Staff of the Department of Health and the Department of Social Services and Seniors will require considerable time to fully implement the changes. There will be changes in program policies, establishment of a new rate structure, financial reassessments of current residents as well as financial assessments of new residents.
Minister Gillan said, “It is my intention to keep the public informed as the process unfolds over the next few months. Your patience and cooperation during this time would be appreciated.”