Norm Miller is pleased with Huntsville’s decision to put a motion asking to dissolve Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare on hold. The Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP made that comment at Queen’s Park today, saying he wants to express his support for the two hospital sites in Huntsville and Bracebridge. He says it’s been a big issue for Muskoka, and is thanking the MAHC board for agreeing to meet with Huntsville council to answer questions.
Council was looking at a motion this week to petition the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to have the healthcare board dissolved and CEO Natalie Bubela dismissed. However, the town agreed to table the motion until next month following a presentation from MAHC officials where they offered to meet with town officials. Miller says that motion was an unusual step, but Mayor Scott Aitchison and council are doing their best to represent the views of the community.
Miller also weighs in on the feeling in the community that MAHC has its mind made up on a one-site model, something officials have repeatedly said isn’t true. He says that feeling has the community frustrated, and he encourages MAHC to be completely open with council and release as much information as possible to the public.
However, Miller notes he doesn’t want to entirely blame Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare. He says the board is dealing with funding issues and didn’t receive its fair share of investment increases. The Ontario government announced $822 million was going into Ontario hospitals, and of that funding, MAHC received $750,000.
Miller says the province needs to increase funding to ensure the two hospital sites can be maintained.
Previous stories:
Huntsville puts motion to petition province to dissolve Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare on hold
MAHC provides more insight on the hospital redevelopment project
MAHC provides more insight on the hospital redevelopment project
MAHC offers you a chance to have a say on the future of healthcare in Muskoka