Health System Strategy in British Columbia

BCSLA Annual ConferenceDoug Hughes, ADM, Ministry of Health

September 28, 2015

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Overview Changing context Addressing the challenge A collaborative approach

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A Changing Context An aging population Over-congested emergency rooms Hospitals operating at capacity Need for appropriate care models for seniors and

high needs populations Wait times for many procedures have not

declined

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What are the key populations?

Higher users of service include: Frail seniors (seniors with moderate to high complex

chronic conditions and increasing risks or signs of frailty)

Complex chronic conditions Severe mental illness and/or substance use

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Addressing the challenge

1. Patient-Centred Care

2. Continuous Improvement

Setting Priorities for the B.C. Health System

Strategic direction for the health sector

Unifying platform for health authority planning and action

The ‘Vision’: Priorities and Direction

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Strategic Focus – 2015 to 2017

Improve quality of care for seniors with complex health issues and patients with mental illness and/or addictions while reducing hospitalizations

Improve access to surgical services and procedures

Improve delivery of rural health services Primary care access

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Primary and Community Care

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Rural Health

Health-Care Forum: Focus on Improving Senior’s Care

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Where do Senior Living Communities Fit in?

Independent living and assisted living support individuals to live independently in the community

Accommodation and support services meet the needs of a wide range of people (e.g. seniors, people with physical disabilities and those with substance use issues requiring support)

The sector is well positioned to support change as need continues to grow

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Related Priorities

The Ombudsperson’s Report, The Best Care: Getting It Right for Seniors in British Columbia

Office of the Seniors Advocate

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The Way Forward Addressing health care system challenges Taking a collaborative approach with partners and

stakeholders Responding to the Ombudsperson’s

recommendations Seeking opportunities with the Office of the

Seniors Advocate

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Questions

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