Toronto hospital to greatly expand permanent housing program that reduces ER visits
Dr. Andrew Boozary of the University Hospital Network says it's a more humane approach to helping the vulnerable and is also cost effective.
The University Health Network's Dunn House in Toronto is planning to significantly expand its permanent housing program, which has reduced hospital emergency room visits for its 51 residents by 52 percent and decreased average hospital stays by 79 percent. The model will be replicated for 300 people, with three additional buildings set to open in Toronto.
Federal and provincial governments, alongside the city, have pledged support for the initiative, contributing a combined $64 million. Preliminary data from Dunn House shows residents saved $1.66 million in hospital costs annually and reduced their ER visits by 52 percent. The expansion aims to provide housing with direct access to healthcare professionals, improving residents' health and reducing strain on the hospital system.
Success stories include residents finding jobs, returning to school, and overcoming drug addictions. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed strong support for the model, calling it life-saving. The project's city investment will total $27 million, pending council approval.
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