Victoria hospitals launch new, risky 'care model'

April 23, 2014

A new Mustel survey shows ninety-five percent of Vancouver Island residents support the call for evidence that a new patient care model is safe.

Poll shows 95% of Vancouver Island residents want evidence patient care is safe

"The BCNU has repeatedly demanded Island Health show us proof this new care model, which replaces nurses at the bedside, is safe for patients," says President Debra McPherson. "This poll concludes the public overwhelmingly agrees with the need for evidence."

Wednesday April 23 is the date Island Health set for implementation of the new care model in Victoria. More than one hundred nursing positions are being removed from the bedside. The change is expected to double patient loads for nurses and lead to an increased risk of adverse outcomes.

The new care model went into effect in Nanaimo last September. Island Health's own survey of those nurses found ninety percent wouldn't want a family member cared for on their own units. BCNU believes similar plans are in the works at other BC hospitals, as all health authorities try to meet budget targets on the backs of patients. Nurses are demanding Island Health stop the spread of the new care model.

"We have seen how patients suffered in Nanaimo, because of this ill-conceived plan," says McPherson. "Seventeen thousand people have signed our petition, yet Island Health continues to ignore calls for an independent review of this new care model. Vancouver Island residents deserve high quality, safe, effective care."