There’s a warning that staffing levels in Ontario hospitals might get worse.
The Ontario Nurses Association represents over 68,000 nurses and healthcare workers across the province.
Recent data from the College of Nurses of Ontario reveals that nearly 8,000 nurses left the field last year.
President Erin Ariss is urging the provincial government to take action by committing to better and consistent funding.
While addressing a legislative committee during a pre-budget hearing in Thunder Bay, President Erin Ariss mentioned that many hospitals aren’t transparent about how they utilize government funds.
“This government must ensure that funding is increased and spent as intended,” says Ariss.
“Funding for clinical hours must be spent on frontline care in its entirety, not IT projects, more management positions, or other non-clinical projects.”
Ariss also supports implementing staffing ratios to help keep nurses and encourage those who have left due to working conditions to return.
This approach is already in place in British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and more recently Manitoba.
“Nurse to patient ratios improve safety, reduce burnout and improve retention and recruitment,” says Ariss.
“Jurisdictions with ratios see a substantial increase in nurse retention. We need legislated ratios here in Ontario to make our workplaces safer.”
Hospitals have pushed back against staffing ratios, claiming they need flexibility.
Ariss believes it could save money while also enhancing patient care.
Randy Thoms is a veteran news broadcaster with over 40 years’ experience. He is based in Fort Frances and covers stories across northwestern Ontario. Contact Randy at thoms. randy@radioabl. ca.
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