Investment Will Help 59 Health Service Agencies Repair and Upgrade Care Centres
Ontario is providing $4.1 million in 2016-17 to community health service providers across the province to keep facilities in a state of good repair, so that patients can continue to receive high-quality care in a safe and healthy environment.
Premier Kathleen Wynne made the announcement today at South Riverdale Community Health Centre, which will receive $265,000 this year through the Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund (CIRF) for upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, and to make washrooms and facilities wheelchair accessible. This is the first round of funding through the CIRF.
Across Ontario, 59 community health service providers at 70 sites will receive funding to support crucial infrastructure projects to extend the useful life of their facilities, improve accessibility and enhance quality of care. Projects may include upgrades or replacements to roofs, windows, HVAC systems and fire alarms.
Increased investment in community health care is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by making a high-quality college and university education more affordable. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario's history and is building a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
Quick Facts
- Community health service providers are funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to provide a range of community programs, including primary care, community mental health and addictions, and residential treatment programs.
- Ontario’s health care budget has increased from $47.6 billion in 2012–13 to a total of $51.8 billion in 2016–17.
- Since 2013, seven new hospitals have been built in five communities: Toronto, Oakville, London, Hamilton and Cornwall.
- Last week, Ontario released the Premier’s mandate letters to ministers, which provide further details on how ministers will deliver on key priorities, including health care.