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2009 Nov 26 (Thu)
Alberta Hospital Edmonton
Kevin questions the recent plans to cut services at Alberta Hospital Edmonton, and whether the implementation advisory team has the authority to recommend that the current services offered at Alberta Hospital Edmonton remain in place.
1929 Alberta Hansard November 23, 2009
Dr. Taft: Well, thanks, Mr. Speaker. This government changed its plans for Alberta Hospital Edmonton three times in two months, then announced an implementation advisory team, and then had to wade in to clear up confusion about that team. The confusion around Alberta Hospital is one more sign that Alberta Health Services is in turmoil. My question is to the Premier. Does the mandate of the implementation team allow them to recommend that Alberta Hospital’s programs and services remain in place and untouched? Are they able to make that recommendation?
Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, I’ve asked the team to ensure that we provide the best quality program for those in the care of either the Alberta Hospital or any mental illness program that we have available in Alberta. As I said before, I’m of the opinion, shared by many advocates for those that are suffering from mental illness, that they would have a better quality of life in the community. That is the goal, but we want to make sure that the services are in place for those that may choose to live in community-based care because I really do believe they will see a better quality of life.
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Dr. Taft: Well, thanks, Mr. Speaker. It sounds like the Premier has made up his mind before he’s got the advice. Later today we’ll be tabling a petition with thousands of names on it defending the role and services of Alberta Hospital Edmonton. In light of all the criticism and opposition this plan has created throughout the province from average citizens right up to all kinds of medical experts and psychiatrists, will the Premier cancel plans to cut beds and services at Alberta Hospital Edmonton and provide the funding that’s necessary to keep the important programs at that institution?
Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, nobody is reducing the number of beds. Those beds may be in a different location. They may be in community-based care. They won’t be in an institution. It seems that that is what the opposition wants, to keep people forever and ever in an institution even though they would see a better quality of life in the community.
Dr. Taft: Well, Mr. Speaker, some people do need long-term care in an institution. Alberta Hospital Edmonton provides programs and services that aren’t just vital to the patients; they’re vital to public safety. One of these is the Phoenix program, which treats pedophiles, including some of the worst of the worst. Will the Premier guarantee the public that the Phoenix program, which treats predatory pedophiles, will not be cut from Alberta Hospital Edmonton?
Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, what I was referring to earlier was to those individuals that can be rightfully placed in community care, those suffering from mental illness that can be treated. In this particular case, safety of Albertans is of utmost importance, and that is the purpose of the committee, to make sure that nobody is moved unless there is appropriate care in the community.
Date: Thu Nov 26 17:53:45 MST 2009
changed by: Rebecca
IP: 68.149.137.22
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