Redford Tories M.I.A. on long-term care
EDMONTON, AB (December 9, 2011): Premier Alison Redford is putting the priorities of seniors in the back seat as wait times for long term care beds continues to increase, the Wildrose Caucus said today.
Alberta Health Services released its second quarter report on Thursday which revealed that the province is still well below its target goals for long term care. Currently there are 1,815 patients waiting for long term-care in the province, and as reported today, there are 132 more people waiting for long-term care this year in Calgary alone – a 71 per cent increase.
“While seniors and families continue to wait for action on long-term care, the Redford PCs insist on sitting on their hands,” Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said. “Seniors deserve a government that takes their concerns seriously and will reduce barriers that prevent them from making a seamless transition to getting the health services they need.”
Wildrose Health Critic Heather Forsyth said the Redford PCs must commit to investing in true long-term care beds instead of so-called “continuing care” beds.
“It’s clear that we have a government that prefers band-aid solution instead of investing in safe and affordable long-term care to reduce hospital backlogs and strain on seniors and their families,” Forsyth said “Without the proper investment being made into long-term care, seniors will continue to age in expensive and uncomfortable hospital rooms without getting the care they need.”
The Wildrose Caucus stands for free enterprise, less government, increased personal freedom and democracy.
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For further information or to arrange an interview, media are invited to contact:
Brad Tennant – Wildrose Caucus