Ontario is making changes to the way it funds hospitals by introducing a new patient-based funding model. This new funding model is part of the “Action Plan for Health Care” and funds hospitals based on:
- Number of patients seen;
- Services delivered;
- Quality of those services and other specific community needs.
Currently, hospitals receive a lump sum based on their previous year’s budget with no link to the type or quality of care provided. In partnership with hospitals, Ontario will phase in the new patient-based funding model over the next three years. The new model is expected to result in:
- Shorter wait times and better access to care in their communities;
- More services, where they are needed;
- Better quality care with less variation between hospitals.
For more information, go to www.news.ontario.ca.