Health Minister Ron Liepert announced yesterday that the Stelmach
government plans sweeping changes to the Alberta health care system.
With few specifics in the announcement, CUPE Alberta waits with
Albertans to learn whether intended changes will serve to strengthen the
public health care system or further weaken accountability and access in
the name of efficiency.
CUPE Alberta has long called for meaningful and comprehensive health
care system enhancement. Our recommendations have included: improvements
to community care, reduction in hospital emergency wait times, improved
staffing levels in health care and facilities for seniors, and the
development of a pharmacare program.
We are optimistic that upcoming health care changes could reflect our
research and recommendations.
The area of Continuing Care is of particular concern. In the Spring of
2007, CUPE Alberta reported on a survey of staff working in seniors
facilities. Crisis in Seniors’ Care - A Front Line View demonstrated
that in order to improve service in these facilities, there must be a
priority made to recruit and retain quality staff.
“Expanded and improved continuing care and residential services for
seniors are long overdue, and were starkly evident in our report.” said
CUPE Alberta President D’Arcy Lanovaz. “Improvements in the areas of
staffing levels and working conditions are urgent priorities to support
the recruitment and retention of staff.”
“We look forward to concrete plans that will demonstrate this
government’s clear and measurable commitment in this area.”
CUPE Alberta will be closely monitoring developments during all stages
of the announced health care changes, to ensure that our health care
stays public and accessible to all Albertans.
For more information contact:
D’Arcy Lanovaz - President, CUPE Alberta (403) 861-5235
Audra Williams - Communications representative, CUPE (780) 504-2837