Quebec caregivers decry reduction in home-care services

Caregivers in Quebec are expressing their discontent over the reduction of home-care services in the province. These services are crucial for supporting vulnerable individuals in their daily tasks, allowing them to maintain a level of independence and quality of life.

The government’s service employment paycheque program plays a key role in subsidizing caregivers outside the health network to provide essential home-care services. Last year, approximately 22,000 Quebecers benefited from this program. However, concerns have been raised as users fear potential cuts to the program.

Health Minister Christian Dubé’s pledge to minimize the impact of $1.5 billion in health-care cuts has added to the uncertainty surrounding the future of home-care services. Caregivers like Teri-Lee Walters, who provide vital assistance to their loved ones, are feeling the effects of these changes. Walters, who has been caring for her disabled friend in Montreal for three years, has noticed a reduction in support under the service employment paycheque program.

Advocacy groups, such as Exaequo, are also voicing their concerns about the potential ramifications of scaling back home-care services. Rose-Marie Wakil, the co-ordinator of Exaequo, highlights the importance of having consistent and reliable caregivers for individuals with disabilities.

Despite assurances from government officials that no cuts have been mandated, caregivers and advocacy groups are reporting limitations and disruptions in the services provided. The uncertainty surrounding the program’s future has left many caregivers and individuals with disabilities feeling anxious and unsupported.

In response to these concerns, Montreal regional health authorities have stated that changes to home-care services are being made based on the urgency of each case. However, opposition critics argue that decisions regarding essential services should not be left to individual institutions.

As the debate continues, caregivers and individuals who rely on home-care services are left in limbo, unsure of what the future holds for their care and support. The need for consistent, reliable, and personalized home-care services remains paramount for vulnerable individuals in Quebec.