Ontario Health Coalition Speaks Out Against Bill 7
What is Bill 7 and Why Should You Care?
Let’s talk about Bill 7, also known as the More Beds, Better Care Act (2002), passed by the Ford government in Ontario. This controversial piece of legislation gives hospitals and placement coordinators the power to override elderly patients’ right to informed consent when it comes to moving them into long-term care homes.
Imagine being forced to leave the hospital and live in a long-term care facility that you have no desire to be in. This law enables hospitals and placement coordinators to share patient information with long-term care corporations and others without the patient’s consent, apply for placement without their consent, and even admit them into a facility without their consent.
If a patient refuses to comply, the hospital can charge them $400 a day as a form of coercion. This law is being used to place patients in substandard care facilities that are far from their loved ones and unable to provide appropriate care.
The Impact on Patients
Patients in Southern Ontario can be moved up to 70 km away from their homes, while those in the north can be relocated up to 150 km. This can be particularly devastating for elderly patients who are in poor health and may not have much time left. For many, this forced move will be their final one, and they will ultimately pass away in a facility that was forced upon them.
How Will This Affect Me?
If you are an elderly patient in Ontario, this law could have significant implications for your health and well-being. You may find yourself being moved into a long-term care facility against your wishes, far away from your loved ones and without access to the care you need. It’s important to stay informed about your rights and advocate for yourself in the face of this legislation.
How Will This Affect the World?
Although this law is specific to Ontario, it sets a dangerous precedent that could have far-reaching implications for healthcare systems worldwide. The idea of overriding a patient’s right to informed consent goes against the principles of patient autonomy and could lead to similar laws being enacted in other jurisdictions. It’s essential to push back against legislation that undermines the rights of patients and puts their well-being at risk.
Conclusion
Bill 7 is a concerning piece of legislation that threatens the rights and well-being of elderly patients in Ontario. The Ontario Health Coalition’s efforts to challenge this law in court are a crucial step in protecting the autonomy and dignity of patients. It’s essential to stay informed about healthcare legislation and advocate for policies that prioritize patient rights and well-being.
