Internal data reveals 726 Quebecers waiting in hospital for long-term care beds

Data released by Santé Québec indicates that 726 Quebecers are currently occupying hospital beds while awaiting a spot in a long-term care facility, a number that has been steadily increasing. These patients, who do not require immediate hospitalization, are waiting due to their inability to continue living at home due to medical conditions.

Hospitals in the region, such as Pierre-Le Gardeur Hospital, Charles-Le Moyne Hospital, and the Jewish General Hospital, all have patients on long-term care waiting lists, with some as high as 43, 37, and 30 respectively. This trend has escalated from 568 patients in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with approximately 50 more patients joining the waiting list each year.

Advocates for patients' rights argue that the rising demand is a consequence of an aging population. They suggest that providing care at home can improve patients' health and reduce their reliance on hospital resources. However, there is concern over the reduction in the number of hours allocated for in-home care. On a positive note, the government has recently expanded a pilot project for simplified home support to six new regions, allowing individuals to hire domestic help directly through non-profit businesses, thereby reducing wait times significantly.