For the first time in a long time, it appears that Hospice Muskoka can look to the future with optimism instead of trepidation.
During Tuesday’s meeting of the Bracebridge General Committee, councillors welcomed Donna Kearney, the executive director of Hospice Muskoka, which oversees Andy’s House in Port Carling. Kearney came to express gratitude to the council for their ongoing support and to share plans for the organization’s future.
Founded in 1995, Hospice Muskoka is dedicated to providing palliative and end-of-life care. However, in recent years, the organization faced significant funding challenges for Andy’s House, raising concerns about the potential closure of the facility. The situation took a turn in January when the provincial government announced funding to increase the total number of supported beds at Andy’s House to seven.
“Thanks to everyone who contributed to putting Hospice Muskoka on stable ground,” said Kearney. “We now feel like we are at a point where we can grow our services. I see the passion in my staff.”
Kearney revealed plans to introduce a new program called Andy’s House at Home this fall. This initiative aims to provide specialized palliative care through a nurse practitioner, allowing patients to receive support in their own homes and helping to keep them out of emergency rooms. The program will collaborate with community paramedics, Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, and other partners to make this vision a reality.
In addition, Hospice Muskoka is actively seeking space to deliver services from satellite locations. They plan to establish a site in the Cottage Country Family Health Unit in Gravenhurst by 2026 to offer various programs. Additionally, they are currently searching for a satellite office in Bracebridge.
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