The Alexander Muskoka Residence has seven new care beds for those transitioning from acute hospital health care to home in our region.
It comes after a new partnership with the Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC).
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held yesterday (Dec. 9) in Gravenhurst to celebrate the opening of the residence’s new seven-bed transitional care unit and to mark the opening of the transitional care program.
Cheryl Harrison, MAHC President and CEO, says it represents a “critical solution” for patients who are medically ready to leave hospital care but are unable to return to their prior living situation.
“This program ensures that patients receive care in the right place, at the right time, while waiting for the next step in their journey,” she says. “It also demonstrates how innovation and partnerships can address challenges in our healthcare system and provide care beyond the walls of a hospital while prioritizing the needs of the community.”
According to officials, with expected stays of less than 90 days, patients transferred from the hospital to The Alexander will continue to receive care from their primary care physician or a designated nurse practitioner for the duration of their stay.
They add the new agreement highlights the importance of collaboration across the healthcare sector to alleviate pressures on hospital occupancy.
Leonard Ohja, Managing General Partner at The Alexander Muskoka Residence, says they are proud to introduce their new transitional unit, which includes seven beds for MAHC patients, with the capacity to expand to nine beds if needed.
“This flexibility allows us to respond to the dynamic needs of our community and ensures we remain a dependable pillar of support for residents, caregivers, and families,” says Ohja.
Officials say the MAHC is grateful to the Ministry of Health for funding the program and to MPP Graydon Smith for attending the official opening.
