NDP would add 2,000 more long-term care spaces

More than 2,100 long-term care spaces have been opened for seniors over the last four years. But on Thursday, Premier Rachel Notley announced her government would add 2,000 more over the next five years.

That pledge came during a campaign appearance in Lethbridge, weeks after a new westside facility was announced by the Covenant Health organization. A number of nurses and seniors’ care providers joined her for the event.

“Building 2,000 new longterm care beds will improve seniors’ care, help families and give our health-care providers the support they deserve,” she said.

It will also free up beds in Alberta hospitals, she said. The cost was pegged at $170 million.

When their working years are done, Notley said Albertans deserve “a dignified and well-cared-for future.”

“That’s on the minds of many, many Albertans.”

By caring for aging people in long-term facilities, Notley said they would receive the specialized care they need — while doctors, nurses, paramedics and others at acute-care facilities would have more time to help the sick.

“My plan will ensure that the nurses, doctors and all health-care

professionals that provide these critical services are well supported,” she said.

But those would not be priorities for a Jason Kenney government, she pointed out.

That would put “all these things at risk.”

“Albertans can count on me to defend and protect patient care,” she pledged.

Kenney favours American-style health care, Notley said. That would mean good care — for those who could afford it.

For Albertans who aren’t well off, “it would be devastating.”

Follow @DMabellHerald on Twitter