New Ontario bill could force hospital patients to transfer to distant nursing homes or face high fees.

The North Bay Regional Health Centre has not had to send patients far for long-term care or charge high fees. However, the new More Beds Better Care Act (Bill 7) could allow hospitals to choose nursing homes for patients up to 70 km away in southern Ontario and 150 km in northern Ontario without consent. Refusing to leave could result in daily charges up to $400. CEO Paul Heinrich supports Bill 60, which sets maximum distances for patient transfers, and notes no issues have arisen since its implementation.

November 18, 2024
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