726 Quebecers waiting in hospital for long-term care beds
Quebec long-term care bed waitlist hits 726 as hospitals stay full See which hospitals are hardest hit and why stronger home care could help
Internal data from Santé Québec shows 726 patients in Quebec were waiting in hospital for a longterm care bed as of Aug. 3, according to a report based on an access to information request.
The patients are considered medically stable enough to leave hospital, but cannot return home because they need longerterm care. The largest reported queues include PierreLe Gardeur Hospital in Lanaudière, CharlesLe Moyne Hospital in Montérégie and the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal.
The number has increased from 568 in the 202324 fiscal year, with advocates saying the trend reflects an aging population and gaps in home support. They argue that stronger home care services could help older adults remain independent longer and reduce pressure on hospitals and longterm care facilities.