N.B. government adds 20 new generalist care beds added in Saint John

20 generalist care beds have been added to Saint John region in New Brunswick.

The New Brunswick government has added 20 new long-term care (LTC) beds as work continues to cut down the lengthy wait list.

Meadow Valley Manor, a nursing home in Saint John, N.B., east end, has expanded its operations to make room for the generalist care beds. The 20 beds are the first generalist care beds to open in the greater Saint John region.

Generalist care beds are traditionally dedicated for residents who do not require 24-hour nursing care but still do require some help because of their health condition or various limitations.

Each resident that will take up one of the newly announced beds will have a personalized plan of care that tailors to the individuals’ particular needs.

“This means that residents are able to live with dignity, receiving the quality care they deserve in safe, respectful environments,” said Lyne Chantal Boudreau, minister responsible for seniors. “The positive impact that a truly caring environment can have on a person’s wellness is immense.”

The announcement comes as the province finds itself amid a desperate need for more LTC beds across New Brunswick. In July, the Department of Social Development granted Horizon Health Network “critical state admission prioritization” status.

The move meant patients with no medical need for care at four regional hospitals will be bumped to the top of the list for long-term care beds for the next 30 days.

At that time, Horizon alone said there are over 650 patients at their hospitals who do not need acute care but cannot be discharged as they are waiting for beds elsewhere.

“This expansion and these new beds will help more New Brunswickers get the care they have been waiting for,” says Social Development Minister Cindy Miles. “We want to do all we can to help get people off of waiting lists and into care homes, like Meadow Valley Manor here in Saint John.”

Miles says the government is creating a long-term plan to address the LTC bed shortage with partners that will be released this fall.

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