Personal Care Home Owners Association president says AG report hitting staff, residents hard
The recent auditor general report on the personal care home industry in Newfoundland and Labrador has left residents and staff in shock. Shaun Lane, president of the Personal Care Home Owners Association, acknowledges that while the report is “somewhat accurate,” it has still taken many by surprise.
The auditor general’s report highlighted disturbing incidents such as a death due to errors, allegations of abuse, and improper medication administration within personal care homes in the province. Lane, who has been in the industry for two decades and owns three personal care homes, expressed his disbelief at some of the findings, considering the presence of standards and protocols.
PC health critic Barry Petten has called for a police investigation into the report’s findings. Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services CEO Pat Parfrey confirmed that police have been involved in personal care home complaints in the past year, emphasizing the importance of following proper procedures when contacting law enforcement.
As an industry, Lane believes that personal care homes require government oversight, regulations, and inspections to ensure the well-being of the vulnerable population they serve. He stressed the need for a balanced approach that acknowledges the hard work of dedicated staff while addressing any shortcomings identified in the report.
Moving forward, Lane emphasized the importance of collaboration between personal care home owners, the Department of Health and Community Services, and the health authority to address the gaps highlighted in the report. He noted the contrasting perspectives presented in a positive 2018 report and the recent auditor general’s findings, highlighting the need to find a middle ground that satisfies all stakeholders.
Overall, the findings in the auditor general’s report have sparked a call for action within the personal care home industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. By working together and implementing necessary changes, stakeholders are hopeful that they can improve the quality of care and ensure the safety and well-being of residents in these facilities.
