OCSA applauds significant investments in home and community care

Budget 2019 makes a smart investment of $267 million in the home and community care sector, which will help to end hallway health care and supports the government's transformation agenda

TORONTO, April 12, 2019 /CNW/ - The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA), applauds the government's decision to invest $267 million in the expansion of home and community care. Today, the government took an important step in the right direction to improve client/patient care and end hallway health care. This investment recognizes the key role home and community care plays in optimizing patient and client flow through the health care system and provides the funding for successful outcomes.

By investing in the entire continuum of home and community care services, including community support services, attendant care services and home care services, the budget recognizes the tremendous impact the sector can have in freeing up hospital capacity, reducing demand for long-term care facilities and giving clients the opportunity to live independently and safely in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

"Budget 2019 makes a smart investment that will have a significant positive impact on clients and the health and well-being of all Ontarians," said Carol Annett, Board Chair of Ontario Community Support Association and CEO of VHA Home HealthCare. "These investments will enable more seniors and people with physical disabilities to live at home and in their communities longer, play a crucial role in ending hallway health care and contributes to a successful health system transformation."

OCSA looks forward to our continued collaboration with the government and health system stakeholders to make care better for all in Ontario.

About OCSA
The Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) represents nearly 240 not-for-profit organizations that provide home care and community support services to over one million Ontarians. Our members help seniors and people with disabilities live independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. These proactive and cost-effective services improve quality of life and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, emergency room visits and premature institutionalization. They are the key to a sustainable health care system for Ontario. For more information, visit www.ocsa.on.ca.

Interviews are available with OCSA Board Chair and VHA Home Health Care CEO, Carol Annett.

SOURCE Ontario Community Support Association