Naresh Bhardwaj, Associate Minister for Persons with Disabilities, issued the following statement (August 21st) in response to calls for an investigation into the deaths of people who have transferred from the Michener Centre:
“I want to express my deep condolences and extend my thoughts and prayers to the families who are grieving.
“We have every confidence in the care providers and medical professionals who ensure individuals receive equal or better care than what they had while at Michener. We do regular follow-ups and check-ins with every individual who has moved into the community to ensure their needs are being met and that any concerns are addressed immediately.
“In every case, the families of each resident that is moved from Michener into another care setting, meets with their loved one’s care professionals to develop, and approve of, a transition plan supporting his or her unique medical and care needs.
“If anyone has any evidence to suggest the needs of an individual are not being met, or that a death was caused by a transition to another care setting, we ask that they speak with the appropriate authorities.”