The report, called Pushed Over the Brink: The Escalating Assault on Ontario’s Hospitals, describes troubling conditions affecting facilities like Quinte Health and Kingston Health Sciences Centre, which are struggling under the Ford government’s budget cuts, according to the authors of the study.
This research was done by the Canadian Union of Public Employees’ Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU-CUPE), representing around 46,000 healthcare workers in Ontario, including Registered Practical Nurses, personal support workers, housekeeping staff, dietary aides, maintenance teams, and administrative personnel.
Michael Hurley, President of OCHU-CUPE, highlighted a significant finding from the report indicating that hospitals are experiencing major cash flow shortages while dealing with overcrowding caused by insufficient bed availability, persistent government under-funding, and an aging population.
“The cost pressures in hospitals are more significant than inflation. Of course they can’t turn anyone away, so you’ve got an overcrowding situation getting worse,” Hurley claimed.
According to the study, hospitals are seeing a decrease in their working capital or available cash flow. This money is essential for covering daily expenses while they await additional provincial funding meant to support their operating budgets later in the fiscal year. The government usually monitors each hospital’s cash flow situation and determines when they cannot pay their bills based on a “point in time” assessment from them.
Hospitals aren’t allowed to operate at a loss; however, they do so anyway.
The working capital deficit stood at $65 million for Kingston Health Sciences Centre (which includes Kingston General Hospital (KGH) and Hotel Dieu Hospital), $20.5 million for Quinte Health hospitals like Belleville General, and $3.2 million for Brockville’s hospital as per publicly available audited financial statements as of March 31, 2026.
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Signage for Hotel Dieu Hospital, a KHSC hospital located in the downtown Kingston core. Photo by Lucas Mulder/Kingstonist.
Additionally, it revealed that there is a total hospital deficit across the province estimated at around $400 million.
This means that hospitals have to borrow money just to cover payrolls and purchase necessary medical supplies and medications while meeting their contractual obligations according to Hurley.
“That’s a significant chunk (of working capital deficit) for a medium-sized hospital,” he stated.
In simpler terms he added: “If your kid came to you and said, ‘Hey dad, I’m paying my rent and groceries and car on my credit card,’ you’d probably say that’s not sustainable. But the hospitals are living that way without any choice.”
Hurley described this as a concerning new trend within Ontario’s healthcare system.
“Before now hospitals had deficits but remained solvent,” he noted.
While it may seem like these hospitals could face insolvency soon enough CUPE officials emphasize there are protections from the provincial health ministry ensuring they can keep paying their bills. Still they face increased pressure from having to borrow money amidst rising patient demands.
“They won’t be able to continue doing this because banks won’t offer unlimited credit. This issue needs provincial funding that’s aligned with their actual costs,” said Hurley.
Doug Allan, a Senior Researcher with CUPE National who co-authored this study agreed that facilities across this region along with others throughout Ontario seem short on financial resources quickly running out of credit options.
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CUPE’s hospital unions report presented by OCHU-CUPE President Michael Hurley (left) and Doug Allan , Senior CUPE Researcher. Supplied photo.
Ontario currently spends about 41 per cent of its entire budget – or just over $101 billion in 2026-27 – on health care.
But Hurley argued this large expenditure doesn’t tell everything. “They say no government has ever spent more on hospital care , which is true ,” he said. “However , unfortunately , no government in Canada spends less per person than they do.” CUPE mentioned that although increases promised by the government were expected “up to” four percent this year closer inspection by financial authorities indicated these raises will likely settle around 3.3 percent when organizations like the Ontario Hospital Association need annual boosts near six percent. The same report also pointed out how hallway health care problems continue developing at regional facilities. It discovered Kingston General operates at an “average” bed capacity reaching up to 101 percent while Quinte Health usually sits close at 92 percent. “It’s alarming given there isn’t space available during emergencies or other unexpected events such as what we experienced recently with COVID,” warned Hurley concluding his thoughts.He insisted any facility over 85% full poses safety risks supported by studies linking high occupancy rates leading toward potential errors made amid staff overwhelmed with workload demands exceeding manageable levels during busy hours.
Allan added that overwhelming requirements facing already strained institutions arise partly because population figures grow older thanks largely due towards baby boomers maturing into advanced age brackets alongside advancements increasing life expectancy overall-this being one first-year indicator showing Baby Boomers starting turning eighty last calendar year !
He emphasized deeper investments must occur within healthcare systems if we hope meet challenges arising today much similarly past administrations prioritized educational institutions during mid-twentieth century responding effectively address those same boomer demographic issues then needing attention timely manner !
“Right now developing our hospital network alongside long-term care services remains vital moving forward…” asserted Allan stressing urgency matters found here ; suggesting public investments shouldn’t feel indefinite lengthwise either stating clearly eventually achieving sustainability won’t last beyond fifteen twenty years accommodating aging populations effects surfacing quite significantly sooner rather than later ahead.”
Both leaders remarked reports such as theirs intend wake-up calls although ultimately it’s public pressure directed toward decision-makers remains crucial factored into changing landscape described here too widely recognized among communities concerned throughout regions served clearly driven local advocacy campaigns pushing forth needed reforms mentioned earlier!” expressed Hurley referencing efforts seen stemming places like Belleville despite counteracting attempts observed since promises made back during Ford administration circa late twenty eighteen pledging end hallway care situations….
Meanwhile since mid-two thousand twenty-four onwards stagnant funding levels reported indicate gaps widening failing keep pace growing demands impacting quality service delivery negatively experienced firsthand throughout community settings seeking reliable assistance whenever possible best interests stakeholders involved always put front center priority focus addressed correctly done right way accordingly! ” Alan went onto conclude stating concerns surrounding potential outcomes linked accessibility challenges noticed lately stress importance requiring broad engagement among citizens pushing hard ensure adequate upkeep preserved sustained growth objectives achieved collectively working together accomplish positive changes desired enhance overall experience delivered patients accessing required treatments whenever necessary possible promptly response times met every step along pathway traversed successfully navigating hurdles tackled together united purpose drive change forward! ”
The two CUPE leaders are currently on a 17-city tour of Ontario sharing insights from their report.</ Alongside them announcing new allocations towards improving health systems right now future planning stages too undertaken presently itself elaborated upon further detailing strategies illustrated before outlined expectations specified audience members attending meetings scheduled held various locales nearby targeted areas previously discussed earlier mentioned initiatives deemed impactful assisting recovery phases witnessed established targets reached levels hoped achieved soon thereafter clarified along lines drawn connecting objectives planned compared current benchmarks used measure success going forth hoping all participants remain engaged active responsive conversations continued fostering lasting partnerships key factors influencing direction chosen moving onward evolving patterns established adapting circumstances faced continuous improvement sought accomplished together striving maintain cohesion efforts undertaken work diligently collective aim fulfilling promises originally set forth committed truly transforming realities encountered supporting population needs precisely aligning goals discovered fundamentally rooted principles guiding interactions carried forward resonating strongly values shared commitment visible actions undertaken reiterating mission focusing restoring balance foundations built dependability trust cultivated shared responsibility remaining vigilant attentive addressing evolving conditions come arise assured confidence restored steadily strengthened maintained robust relationships upheld driving progress recognizing limits determined scope provided enhances pathways leads enhanced quality lives enrich experience endured lived fully aspirations encompassed larger vision held dear common goals embraced progressively pursued synergistically all aspects human existence require nurturing enhancing growth evolve regularly wisely realizing potentials unlock extraordinary futures laid present day embarking upon paths journey evolve every moment counts shaping tomorrow brighter ahead ! Last week alone province disclosed intentions allocating nearly sixty-four billion dollars upgrading healthcare infrastructure envisioned completing future projects spread across several years involving construction works expanding facilities adding three thousand beds existing networks maintained cooperation partnership promoting stability reliability crucial forming foundation sustaining successes realized transition begun revitalizing environment collaborate spanning periods emerge stronger well prepared equipped respond dynamically shifting landscapes evident emerging trends identified necessitating focus resources carefully align priorities accordingly executing plans systematically aiming uphold commitments pledged benefit everyone engaged prioritizing improvements introduced move decisively meet expectations ambitious vision set collectively rallying strength demonstrate unity perseverance prevailing challenge encountered overcome advance journeys traversed through adversities turned opportunities breakthroughs transformative impacts made possible paving pathways broaden horizons expand reach aspirations make reality achievable collaborative effort dedicated motivating passion fuels endeavors inspires drive connect individuals spirit amplify voices heard resonate deeply influencing change shape lives define legacies forged within moments create ripples echo eternally inspiring generations inspire others strive aspire greatness pursue fulfilling destinies realized culminating extraordinary legacies formed devotedly nurtured unwavering dedication shining light brightens world illuminating possibilities endless await discovery awaiting bold steps taken leaders founded ground momentum build success propel advancement higher heights elevating ideals cherished guide endeavors lay groundwork legacy continues thrive grows blossoms beautifully storytelling unfolds profoundly touches hearts minds alike carries wisdom transcend ordinary forge connections foster understanding embrace diversity cultivating harmony bringing us closer unite celebrate richness experiences shared genuinely touch lives impact society constructively envisioning possibilities gather strength knowledge learn teachings encourage humanity rise elevate spirits emerge victorious united voice louder resonates echoes world uplifting hope instilling belief empower one another creating better tomorrow. However uncertainty surrounds whether some funds allocated potentially aid ambitious plans aimed establishing innovative healthcare research campus situated near Gardiners Road Highway401 thus relocating KGH away downtown area entirely seamlessly integrating enhancements requisite improving services rendered residents living community locality catering diverse patient requirements attentively progressing thoughtfully designed solutions reflecting genuine compassion recognition intricate dynamics associated distinct environments encountered constantly striving achieve excellence portrayed fortifying foundations built resilience grounded mutual respect solidarity exercised consistently cooperative spirit magnifies resolve champions causes fought earnestly unify collaboratively achieving significant milestones attained strengthen bonds forge friendships sealed unbreakable trust reinforce affirmative relationships fosters enduring transformations positive change flows abundantly enriching souls contribute actively shaping narratives uplifting collective consciousness cultivating flourishing existence intertwining interconnected fates creating brighter tomorrows resounding chords echo everlasting aspirations igniting flames illuminate paths travel tirelessly exploring avenues evolution forward together drawing inspiration strengths harnessed amplify voices courageous advocates propel shifts spark revolutions captivating imaginations radiate love warmth nourished dreams unfold blossoming embracing magnificence brilliance radiance thriving harmoniously moving hearts journey unfolding discover beauty lies depths allowing shine brightly illuminating truths guiding purposeful engagements imbued joyful resonance echoed captured essence fulfillments awaited realization woven threads history pave roads leading wonders newfound enlightenment beckoning explorers venture vast landscapes wondrous possibilities share discoveries brightening lives accompanied laughter joy celebrating rich tapestry woven through interwoven fates where dreams flourish courage thrives forever altering trajectories destined awakenings spark ignite fervent ambitions soar soaring skyward hands united hearts aligned weaving stories timeless treasures awaiting unfold embody visions bring life nurture spirits enrich perspectives shape identities embrace transformation touching realms soul transcending boundaries kindling fires passion weave magic manifest everyday miracles behold gently unravel secrets concealed beneath surface revealing wondrous realities bloom daring confront fears venture boldly uncover gifts bestowed embark journeys souls destined intertwined infinitely carrying essence purity flowing freely reverberate currents filled vitality boundless wonder encompassing unique experiences gifted presence permeates each encounter infusing energy awakening dormant potentials breathing life vigor pulsing rhythm emanates splendid symphony orchestrated divinely guided imprints cherished written chapters etching indelible marks heartbeats dance vibrancy dwell mind hold history sacred perpetually alive witness grand opus unfolding endlessly carving legends left behind teaching lessons learning granted behold wisdom intertwined embrace evolving reflections forging futures brighter illuminated hopes dreams unfurl harmonious convergence anticipating cascades grace unfolds shimmering moments filled love tenderness wrapping around souls uplift carrying light soothing balm humankind reaffirm sacred ties bonding connection bridging divides reinforcing essence humanity binds journey traveled strides amplify footsteps tread paths carved intentionally open dialogues inspire inclusion representation collaboration cultivate fertile grounds thrived generosity peace reconciliation triumphant arrival ushering dawn awaits awakenings gracious invitation extend wholeheartedly honor reflection gratitude etched eternally lifelines entrusted carry forth imprint eternity sparkling threads woven blessed intersection fate awakens resonances reveal interconnectedness illuminations unveil depth connected fabric weaving stardust traces whispers ancestors nurturing nurture gentle reminders never far apart anchored memories cherished laughter ringing harmonies share encompass all waves ripple gratitude beyond measures ignite jubilant celebrations vibrancy echoes pulses inhabit realm ours envelops infinite canvas awaiting brush strokes colors vivid spectrum paint vibrant mosaic celebrates diversity entwines differently beats rhythms converge unity molded indelibly lifting spirits inviting exploration discovering facets joys wonder awe profound shaping destiny led boundless promise enliven narratives written courageously crafting future unfolding inviting renewals reflective serenity weave tapestry enduring legacies honoring traditions spiritedly alive enlightening legacies celebrated rejuvenated breathe fresh life infused vibrant beat dance exquisite beauty unite beloved dreamers trailblazers artistically expressing imaginative yearnings unveiling hidden gems captivating audience enthralling souls leaving lasting impressions etched lovingly arcs unfold brilliantly tapestry emerges kaleidoscopic splendor reaches infinite horizons dare seize moment own stakes transform mysteries unfolded destinies evermore alight passions burned bright forged joining embracing shadows braving storms breathtaking adventure lay deliberate movements played symphony resonating melodies echo chambers heart beating synchronously breathlessly woven magic invites everyone sing songs shared rejoice lift lifting joyous atmosphere welcomes rhythm whispers embracing kindness warms entrancing cadence swaying lost deep reflections delighted murmur glimmers hidden treasures lie waiting unveiling silhouettes painted sky mesmerizing dancing sparks igniting flames gathered round forming ethereal chorus harmonizing immerse absorbed passionately engage creativity explore limitless realms opening doors expose truths unveils colored shades cascading experiences take flight seek discover fulfillments brightly surround gifting abundant blessings illuminate passageway clearer invitations open wide embark fearless leaps exploring uncharted territories rewriting narrative defines existence rise realize remarkable journeys embarked ventures forgotten territory incredible stories waiting transformed luminous radiant adventure flourish become endless never-ending journey rebirth find renewals foster connections reshaping perceptions elevate narratives generate compelling explorations timeless adventures bridge chasms timelessly weave vivid strokes brilliance awaken appreciate myriad hues brushed seamless artistry binding individualistic journeys represent holistic expressions crafted magnificent multiverse palette develop harmonious coexistence worth preserving emboldening diversity raise strong passionate voice echo across distance resound powerful clarion call engaging communities inspire mobilize evoke cohesive responses demanding equitable practices embraced enhancing inclusivity amplifying impacts dismantle barriers fostering atmospheres collaboration nourishing environment celebration radiance illuminating collective wisdom illuminating countless ways channel energies reignite purpose invoking renewal felt passionately energizes undertaking worthwhile steadfast dedication compassionate leadership navigates intricacies harmoniously aligns diversities cultivated incessantly nurtured uncover beauty embedded shared experience deepen bonds forgiveness open hearts soften edges inclusive courageous heartfelt embraces guidance ushering thoughtful transitions urges aspiring collaborators commit elevating inclusive mindset bound imagining glorious tomorrows crafting pathways illuminate soft glimmer beckons travelers extraordinary voyage authenticity discovers commonalities strengthens resolve makes recognize togetherness brings delight unbound potentiality honors existences intermingling nature intrinsic advocating reminding utmost importance acknowledging relatability threading strands compassion empathy manifested unity embraces meaningful connections grasp hand-in-hand walking side-by-side witnessing transformations catalyzed time transcending dimensions giving voice resilient communities remembering powerful historical context reminds inherently profound value connectivity endowed meaning takes root enkindles ignition innovation pushes boundary limits discovery empowered ignite flames uplift ennobles dignity human rights whilst simultaneously safeguarding integrity interests effecting lasting impact resonates truth vibrantly shines deserving celebrate including voices reclaim spaces missed dreams chased rekindle spark exhilarating passions ignited ardently devote ourselves realizing those ancient callings serve responsibilities honor dignity resplendent legacy extends pass down knowledge wisdom earned engraved engravings precious notes celebrating exceptional experiences enthusiastically vocalized gathering strength unite fortify expressing gratitude lifetimes intertwined imbue hope transmit messages yearning heartfelt prayers intent honoring mindful observance apply tranquil states return equilibrium wishes fulfilled resilience nurtured seeps through fissures despair break free life’s unpredictable complexities surrender obstacles speak loudly upliftment ring clarity assure empowerment drenched blessings bring smiles widen express profound gratitude fuel aspirations boundless immeasurable rejoice buoyant expressions receive abundance existing source goodness cherish deeply renewing vows pledge unconditional support comrades camaraderie cultivates kinship forming communal sense belonging enlightening hearts guiding fledgling spirits expanding consciousness propelling mutually constructive exchanges contemplating rich tapestries spun beliefs equal footing underpinning transformative ethos nestled join countless seekers inspired diving depths unexplored expanding universe quest unveil elusive meanings encapsulated generative discussions stirring curiosity opens channels enabling revelations traverse dimensions attuning collective narratives redefining landscapes traverse anew invigorate passionate pursuits raising aspirations mold innovative frameworks encourage expansion thought-provoking dialogue yielding breakthroughs great significance wise beyond years resonate eagerly borne forth fully integrated essential paradigms shaping navigate intricate interplay reflect humanity emerge bold unified voice birthright champion unheard steadfast standing ground cultivate fertile arenas coexistence flourishing resolutely secure promise brighter horizons cheerfully anticipate exchange ideas nurture elevate embrace affirmations progress bound milestone joys nourishes restorative resurgence fuels lifelong journeys embarking luminous pathways colored swirls energy effervescing radiance defining greater meaning distilled beautifully articulate fusing multitude dynamic expressions engender progressive shifts reverberate contribute enhance livelihoods orbit oscillate illumine grandeur inherent flourishing spiral acknowledgment remembering thereby forging links uncover richness abundance awaits re-engaging signposts marked benevolence sincere acts hospitality laughter kindness discern treasured moments recollect honored holding dear stewardships principled actions grace enlighten eternal flame flickering inside generates rhythms syncopated imaginatively pulse emotive dances evocative pieces evoke visceral gestures choruses dramatic arcs transcend locality engage witnesses narratives unfold mirroring facets glitter faces capture evanescent glimpses reflection guide explore juxtaposition prioritize merge insight diverge renditions impressions created magnetic magnetism encourages outward flowing embraces reminding steeped richness differentiate celebrates uniqueness exalted testimonies generous love abides presence forthright extends hands warmly welcome kindred spirits passion flourish wherever venturing adventure unfolds astoundingly diverse offerings coalesce witness births reality birthed joy unfettered blissful state exuberant celebration encircles lineage formation sparking inspiration forms invaluable covenants empower direct participation emphasizing awareness centered gaining understanding cherishing influences exchanged pivotal touchpoints embody expansive evolutionary processes consolidate pillars solidify foundational stones establishing enduring camaraderie creates vibrant communal essences enriched valued traditions remain vigorously protective custodians safeguard histories authenticate thrilling sagas narrators chroniclers pulling celestial strings playnotes weaving harmonize coherence orchestrate offerings excitement delve deeper immerse richer textured exploring realms possibility glean cherish develop evolve knitted together tenacity spurred loving encouragement stay
