Media Clippings Archive

Waste bigger problem than lack of cash, says chief of staff at Ottawa Hospital

By Meagan Fitzpatrick, Postmedia News

The health-care system Canadians cherish -- and spend billions on -- is in decline and needs better management, the new head of the Canadian Medical Association said Wednesday.

"It's not a lack of resources. It's not an absence of will. It's a glaring failure of execution," said Dr. Jeff Turnbull, chief of staff at The Ottawa Hospital, in his inaugural speech to the CMA.

The Ottawa physician said he's studied health-care systems across the country and around the world and what's needed most to improve the system is not just more money, but "better and more effective systems of management and governance."

Byline: Globe and Mail

When Nicole Donaldson opens her new daycare this September, she will offer a familiar array of programs and services - snacks, field trips, play time, social opportunities and all the gentle guidance that professional caregivers are trained to provide.

But instead of catering to rambunctious preschoolers, she'll be looking after seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia.

A licensed practical nurse with three decades of experience caring for the elderly, Ms. Donaldson is on the verge receiving final approval for what is believed to be the first privately run adult daycare in Greater Victoria.

Located in a nearly renovated home in Colwood, Open Hearts Adult Day Centre is aimed at family members who need a break from the relentless demands of caring for ailing relatives.

Letter from Carol Finnie to Burnaby Now

Dear Editor:

Re: Seniors' care homes get more funding, Burnaby NOW, June 19

We read with interest the article about seven Burnaby seniors' care homes getting additional funding from Fraser Health.

It is ironic to read about getting additional funding as the New Vista Care Home has not yet received final confirmation on our budget from Fraser Health.

In a meeting with Fraser Health on June 10, representatives of New Vista received a "funding model template" that included a proposed funding line item indicating "net additional dollars" at $71,007 for the 2010/11 year. In reality, the proposed funding from Fraser Health for New Vista represents about a $200,000 shortfall for the real cost of our operations.