BC NDP

Broken promise to protect health care will hurt communities, says James

MISSION – News that the government is further slashing critical health care in the Fraser Valley is the latest blow to residents betrayed by the B.C. Liberals’ broken promise to protect health care, said New Democrat leader Carole James today.

"The B.C. Liberals promised to protect vital health services, but they have broken their word," said James. “Yesterday’s announcement is just more evidence of the B.C. Liberals’ failure to protect B.C.’s health care system.”

Thursday, the Fraser Health Authority announced health care cuts to deal with a $160-million deficit, including the closure of beds and layoff of medical staff. There will also be reductions to social work budgets, outpatient clinics and funding for youth addiction programs.

In Mission today, James noted that the fate of Mission Memorial ER remains unclear.

James says the announcement is only part of an extensive list of cutbacks that have already hit the region since the May election.

"It was the New Democrats, not the government, that in August had to warn Fraser Valley residents of impending cuts to mental health and addiction, seniors care and counseling programs,” said James.

"The B.C. Liberals have repeatedly failed to provide Fraser Valley residents with information about what kind of cuts are being contemplated, how they will be mitigated and what impact they will have on the region’s health care system."

James noted that the health care cuts are particularly harmful given the changing demographics in the Fraser Valley.

BACKGROUNDER

Summary of Fraser Health Cuts announced yesterday:

• Reduction of 5.5 Health Unit Aides that provide support in immunization-related functions and childhood screening clinics.
• Closure of the six-bed adolescent psychiatry unit at Abbotsford Regional Hospital by Nov 27, 2009.
• Closure of the 10-bed withdrawal management addictions unit at Chilliwack General Hospital by Dec 31, 2009.
• Closure of eight hospice beds at Queen’s Park Care Centre.
• Closure of the 25-bed convalescent care unit at Queen’s Park Care Centre by Dec 31, 2009.
• Closure of 42 residential care beds at Peach Arch Hospital.
• Elimination of 12 spiritual care coordinators.
• Adjustment of staffing mix in residential care at Weatherby and Alan Hogg pavilions at Peach Arch Hospital.
• Closure of 11 residential care beds each at Bear Creek Lodge and Newton Regency.
• Temporary closures of ambulatory care clinics during winter and spring breaks.
• End of funding for the Matrix Youth Addictions Program, which began in 2006.
• Reduction of social work budget in hospitals by $1.15 million annually; 14.5 positions will be lost.