The Ontario government is connecting more people in Muskoka to comfortable and dignified end-of-life care, close to their community and loved ones by adding four (4) new hospice beds at Hospice Muskoka – Andy’s House. This is part of an expansion of 84 new adult hospice beds across the province, bringing the total number of publicly funded hospice beds in Ontario to 768.
“Our government is investing heavily into health care services in small town and rural area like those across Parry Sound-Muskoka,” said MPP Graydon Smith, Parry Sound-Muskoka. “By more than doubling the number of funded beds at Hospice Muskoka, more families will have access to the outstanding palliative care provided by the team at Andy’s House.”
This expansion is part of the province’s up to $19.75 million capital investment to add 84 new adult hospice beds across the province, bringing the total number of publicly funded hospice beds in Ontario to 768. When these 84 new beds are open, the province will provide an additional up to $16.03 million per year to support the operation of these beds.
“Our government is ensuring people and their families have access to the comprehensive care they need in their community, close to their loved ones, at every stage of life,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “By investing in the expansion of end-of-life care in communities across the province, we are taking another step to connect Ontarians to compassionate and specialized care closer to home.”
Once opened, these new adult hospice beds will bring the total number of Ministry-funded beds at Hospice Muskoka to seven (7).
“Hospice Muskoka is grateful to have an additional four (4) beds funded by the provincial government; for a total of 7 funded beds. The additional base funding will improve Hospice Muskoka’s financial stability, will allow us to expand our programs and services and reduces the need to raise over $1m per year in donations. Hospice Muskoka is dedicated to continuing to provide high quality palliative care in Muskoka!” says Donna Kearney, Executive Director, Hospice Muskoka.
Through the Ontario government’s Your Health plan, the province is making it easier and faster for people of all ages to connect to the care they need, where and when they need it. This includes investing up to $147.4 million over three years to expand access to palliative care services, including increasing funding by 45 per cent for all hospice beds across the province, with additional increases for hospice beds in smaller sites of six beds or less.