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Photo: Government of Alberta
By Chris Brown (CHAT News Today)
alberta

AHS working to boost health system capacity

Sep 9, 2021 | 5:40 PM

Alberta is dealing with COVID-19’s fourth wave and the rising number of hospitalizations by adding supports for Home Care patients and residents in continuing care facilities.

No new restrictions or public health measures were announced today.

Health Minister Tyler Shandro said they want to move patients out of hospital and into “more appropriate” care settings.

He said the government will provide an extra $22 million over two years to increase pay for certified health-care aides working in contracted Home Care agencies. He says it will support retention, help attract new workers and increase capacity in Home Care.

Another $14 million will be provided for short-term staff increases in Home Care agencies and continuing care facilities, Shandro said.

“An increase in staffing will mean that we can move more patients home from the hospital when they are ready. And that’s better care for the patient because the hospital’s only the right place to get care as long as you really need to be there,” he said.

He added it’s better for the system because it frees up beds for the next patient who will need it.

AHS President and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu said the postponement of surgeries and procedures is also helping to free up capacity.

Shandro said there’s not an easy answer to when, if ever, will be the time to limit the movements of unvaccinated Albertans who are spreading the virus.

He added the province is working on a QR code and printable card to help the businesses that have made moves to bar unvaccinated people from their premises. He would not commit to a vaccine passport from the province.

He was non-committal about government-mandated vaccine passports or even whether or not they are on the table.

(with files from CHAT News Today)

by Chris Brown (CHAT News Today)