WHEREAS the lack of funding for hospice and respite beds is having a negative effect on the cost of health care in BC and failing to meet the needs of communities; AND WHEREAS the inability to give respite to in home care givers is causing compromises to their health: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the provincial government to provide appropriate funding for the operating costs of hospice and respite facilities in our communities.
Ministry of Health Palliative care is an evolving area and as BCs population ages and those with life-limiting illnesses live longer, government recognizes this area as a high priority. In March 2013 the Provincial End-of-Life Care Action Plan was released. The Action Plan outlines key priorities and actions to improve the way health care providers meet the needs of individuals and their families coping with end-of-life. The goals of the plan speak to the redesign of health services to deliver timely coordinated end-of-life care; the provision of palliative care information, education, tools and resources; and the strengthening of health system accountability and efficiency. Accompanying the release of the Action Plan was: the announcement of a 2 million commitment to establish a BC Centre for Palliative Care. The Centres purpose is to advocate for and accelerate innovation and best practices in palliative care to benefit all British Columbians and operate as a virtual hub to promote education, evidence-informed practice and policy development; accelerate innovation and best practice; and improve care for people with serious illness and their families. The provision of approximately 15 million in one-time funding to support hospices in recent years was also a part of the Action Plan. In the summer of 2013, Government made a commitment to double the number of hospice spaces in the Province by 2020. The Ministry of Health is initiating a targeted project that includes a working committee with stakeholder representation, including Hospice Societies, to develop an implementation strategy. Recognition and support for those providing care for loved ones at home continues to be important to government. Respite services can give caregivers temporary relief from the emotional and physical demands of caring for a friend or family member and provide an opportunity to participate in community activities. The collection of services provided by the health authorities is designed to reflect the needs of the community, and great effort is made to ensure that individuals and their caregivers are supported at home.