The future of elder care services in British Columbia depends on establishing funding models that are fair, sustainable, transparent, and equitable. Seniors care services—including long-term care, home health, and assisted living—have historically been underfunded in Canada. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the severe consequences of under-resourcing this critical sector. Now, post-pandemic, care operators face significant inflationary pressures, further straining their ability to provide care. Compounding this issue is the lack of a consistent funding methodology across the province, with funding methods and lifts varying significantly by health authority region. To meet the growing needs of our aging population, we must rethink how these essential services are funded to ensure all seniors receive the care they need.
Principles for Funding Models
Every senior deserves the same high-quality care, whether they reside in government-owned- and-operated, non-profit, or for-profit homes. Providers, too, need fair and equitable funding, whether they are operating a long-term care home on the Island, or managing a short-term surge contract for home health services in the lower mainland. Funding models must reflect the true cost of care, allowing all care providers to maintain consistent standards across the province.
Funding models must support care providers to be financially viable, both in the immediate future and over the long term. The model should be resilient enough to handle economic fluctuations, ensuring care providers operate smoothly without financial crises that impact the quality of care.
The funding model must support care providers over the long term. It should be resilient enough to handle economic fluctuations, ensuring care homes operate smoothly without financial crises that impact the quality of care.
Timely funding is critical for planning and delivering services effectively. In the past, delays in funding notices and cost reconciliations left care homes struggling to cover costs. Addressing these delays is essential for a stable system that provides consistent care for seniors.
A Call for Action
A fair, sustainable, transparent, and equitable funding model is essential for the future of elder care in British Columbia, whether that be in long-term care, assisted living or home health. Challenges faced by BCCPA members across the province highlight the need for action. BCCPA is working with our government partners—including the BC Ministry of Health and regional Health Authorities—to advocate for change and a better future. Now is the time to build a resilient system that supports both residents, clients and care operators.
