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Opinion: Ensure that the future LTC needs of citizens are met

If the 15% annual growth rate for those seeking LTC proves correct, in four years that waiting list will have expanded to 343 people
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Cassellholme file photo

By Ephrem Gallant  North Bay.

Right, or wrong, some time ago a decision was made to proceed with a plan to keep Cassellholme small. 

So, is it right, to make a cold, calculated business decision to keep a long term care (LTC) facility small, functional and independent, in order to keep its mortgage payment low and affordable to the municipalities involved?

Or, is it wrong, to have concerns about 196 people today waiting for LTC? Keeping in mind, in many cases that represents 196 supporting families that have exhausted all other options to care for their loved ones.

If the 15 per cent annual growth rate for those seeking LTC proves correct, in four years that waiting list will have expanded to 343 people. Startling, no?

Look, it is great that eight BSO beds and 16 Indigenous beds are included in this reconstruction plan. But at the very least you should be carefully reviewing the subject plan and ensure that the future LTC needs of your citizens are met before its too late.

Like it or not, our City is still in the business of providing local LTC...show a little compassion, please.