Province announces $20-million for palliative care

Sep 9, 2020 | 1:11 PM

EDMONTON – The Alberta government says it will spend $20 million on end-of-life care.

Health Minister Tyler Shandro says the money is a first step in improving access to palliative care for patients and their families.

He says the province is committed to high-quality health care for Albertans.

Shandro says $5 million of the money will go to the Covenant Health Palliative Institute to increase access to end-of-life services and to promote advance care planning.

Another $1 million will be provided to the Alberta Hospice Palliative Care Association to establish in-person and online support groups, develop a grief support line and expand educational workshops.

The province has also eliminated co-payments for end-of-life drugs needed by about 2,700 Albertans who choose to die at home or in a hospice.

Peace River MLA Dan Williams has been picked to consult with people who work in palliative care and other people across Alberta to decide what to do with the $14 million from this announcement that has not yet been allocated.

“I’m so pleased to be part of this important work. As we continue to face the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, now is an important time to discuss end-of-life matters with our families and friends so that we can face the future with strength and dignity,” says Williams in a news release issued by the province.

– with files from EGP staff

by The Canadian Press