I have heard the concerns raised by residents from Sundre and the surrounding area regarding the closure of long-term care spaces at the Sundre Hospital and Care Centre. I want to provide some information to help address the concerns ó and in some cases confusion ó that have arisen.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) has been clear that the closure of the long-term care beds will not result in the closure of the Sundre Hospital and Care Centre. The hospital provides care not only for the town and surrounding area, but also many visitors to the region, particularly during the summer months. It is an important part of the community and ensures the right care is provided in the right place.
Our goal is to ensure Sundre continues to have appropriate programs and services ó as well as the space to deliver such services ó to meet the needs of the community, now and in the future.
When the Mountain View Seniors' Housing facility opens this summer, it will have 40 AHS-funded supportive living beds. This is the first time a supportive living level of care will be offered in the community.
Seniors consistently tell us they want the most home-like, independent care possible and this option meets those needs. Supportive living provides individuals who are medically and physically stable with the day-to-day health and personal care supports they need. Residents live in private suites, in a more independent and home-like environment, with the added reassurance of having professional nursing care and support staff on-site 24 hours a day.
For the vast majority of residents who currently call the Sundre Hospital and Care Centre home, this is the level of care they need. We have committed to keeping all of the current residents in the community if that is their choice. We can offer enhanced care, supports and services in the community, at the new facility ó or at the hospital if necessary ó to help meet changing care needs.
Long-term care spaces are designed for those with complex, unpredictable medical needs who require 24-hour on-site care and supervision from a registered nurse. Until now it has been the only continuing care option available in Sundre, so residents have had no choice but to be placed at the hospital.
We've also heard concerns that the closure of the long-term care beds will result in staff layoffs. The hard work and dedication of nurses, physicians, support staff and volunteers all help ensure residents receive quality care every day. We know changes can be difficult and stressful; we're working with each staff member, in accordance with their respective collective agreements, to address potential impacts. There will not be jobs lost. Staff will have the opportunity to apply for positions at the new facility and we are working with the unions to find alternative placements for staff, either in the community or in another facility if they so desire.
We now have an opportunity to plan how to use the space currently occupied by long-term care at the Sundre Hospital and Care Centre so that it remains an important community resource. There will be a detailed AHS-led consultation process with community leaders, hospital staff, physicians and the public. A mailing list is being created to share that information as it develops; if you are interested in participating, please send your contact information to [email protected].
Cathy McDonald
Senior operating officer ñ south
Central Zone, Alberta Health Services
