Dalton & Dave reinvent Algoma Manor

NEWS RELEASE

ONTARIO MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND LONG-TERM CARE

************************** McGuinty government brings long-term care services closer for residents in Algoma District ALGOMA, ONTARIO, January 29 - The McGuinty government is bringing long-term care services closer to Algoma District residents by redeveloping Algoma Manor in Thessalon and increasing beds in Elliot Lake, Wawa and Blind River, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced today.

"We want residents to receive quality long-term care closer to their families and friends," said Smitherman.

"Our plan allows municipalities to better respond to local needs," the minister said.

It is proposed that an additional 18 long-term care beds currently at Algoma Manor be moved to hospitals in Elliot Lake, Wawa and Blind River to improve access to health services for seniors in those communities.

Further, the remaining 90 beds at Algoma Manor, an older 108-bed home, will be redeveloped into a brand new 90-bed home.

This will ensure that current and future residents are served in a modern, home-like environment and that there is a more equitable distribution of beds in the region.

Municipalities in the Board of Management for the District of Algoma will contribute capital for the redevelopment and will continue to support the operation of the Algoma Manor through municipal levies during a transition period until the new Algoma Manor opens.

At the end of the transition period the municipal levies will cease.

This initiative will bring long-term care services where they are most needed and give municipalities more flexibility to invest in their local priorities such as supportive housing.

Improving quality of life for long-term care home residents is a priority for the McGuinty government.

Since 2003, the government has increased funding to the long-term care home sector by $740 million annually.

Today's initiative is part of the McGuinty government's plan for innovation in public health care, building a system that delivers on three priorities - keeping Ontarians healthy, reducing wait times and providing better access to doctors and nurses.

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