September 23, 2003

Editor
The Toronto Star
1 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON
M5E 1E6

Dear Editor:

Re: The Private Side of Medicare (September 20, 2003)

Thomas Walkom’s article provided clarity and perspective on the track record of the three provincial parties on healthcare privatization.

What was not mentioned, however, is the little known fact that privatization has been the reality in the long term care sector for many years. Over half of the provincially funded long term care beds in Ontario are owned/operated by for-profits. Public dollars are channeled to these operators to deliver service.

What’s more, a recent analysis shows that the for-profit nursing home sector is receiving millions more in provincial funding than their not-for-profit counterparts. This means that the government is paying more to buy long term care services from for-profit operators than from not-for-profit providers.

Long term care is part of the health care system and both the public and the politicians need to pay close attention to what is happening in this critical sector.

Sincerely,

 
Donna A. Rubin
Chief Executive Officer
Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes & Services for Seniors