Interior to receive 495 new long-term care beds

VICTORIA—The Province and Interior Health are coming together to see the addition of 495 long-term care beds—the largest one-time increase in long-term care beds in the region in over 15 years.

The new beds will ensure that seniors can continue to receive care where they live, while also providing more opportunities for jobs in health care.

“The plan we are setting in motion today for nearly 500 beds is what people in the region need. This historical investment is a commitment to seniors living in Interior communities, an assurance that care close to home will be available, when they need it.”—Adrian Dix, Minister of Health

140 beds are planned for the Central Okanagan in Kelowna, 100 in Kamloops, 90 in Vernon, 90 in Penticton and 75 in Nelson. The Province says that the exact location of the beds will be determined through the competitive bid process.