The provincial government says its taking a number of steps to stabilize the health care system.

Health Minister Sylvia Jones says they have a five point plan, including expediting foreign trained health care professionals to practice as soon as possible.

“As of today, I will be receiving plans from the Ontario College of Nurses and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario saying how they intend to expedite individuals who have applied for and are waiting for accreditation and licensing in the province of Ontario,” Jones said in an announcement this morning.

She also says the province will work to address the surgical wait list by using private clinics to perform procedures.

“We see the value of having the some of those independent health facilities, that have existed in the province of Ontario literally for decades, to take the pressure off our health care partners.”

Joining her was Long Term Care Minister Paul Calandra who says they also making a number of changes that
will allow people staying in Alternate Level of Care Beds in hospital, to take a bed in a long term care home.

He adds there will also be more funding for Long Term Care.

“Some of the measures include $37 million this year and $62 million annually going forward to expand access to a range of services and supports for long term care residents with more complex needs like bariatric, behavioral and dialysis.”

During Question Period this morning NDP leader Peter Tabuns says he’s not impressed by the measures.

“Will the government scrap this scheme, and instead launch a plan to recruit, retain and return nurses with better pay, better working conditions and the respect they deserve.”