The provincial government is committing another $1.1 billion to support and expand home care services.
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy says the investments help ease pressures on the healthcare system and free up beds for those who need them most.
“By expanding care closer to home, we’re improving efficiency across the system, supporting local jobs and service providers, while helping communities grow stronger and more sustainable,” says Bethlenfalvy.
As part of that investment, $982 million will be used to maintain and strengthen critical home, supporting patients with more complex needs.
The remaining $170 million will be allocated to enhancing and expanding the hospital-to-home program.
The program provides care to patients after they are discharged from a hospital.
It is now available through 23 hospitals.
With the new funding, it will extend into 18 new areas.
“By expanding home care services across Ontario, we are supporting patient independence and recovery, while easing pressures on hospitals and freeing up beds for those who need them most,” says Sylvia Jones, Minister of Health.
The province says over the past two years, the number of people accessing home care services has increased by 18%.
Waitlists for personal support services have fallen 94% over the same period.
