A report from the Canadian Cancer Society states the adequate amount of hospice beds in the country is seven per 100,000 people. But, currently Canada only has 3.97 beds per 100,000 people.
Locally, this remains true, especially as numbers of those looking for end of life care is returning to pre-pandemic levels.
"Pre-COVID times, we were always full and always had a waitlist," said Willy Van Klooster, executive director at Huron Hospice. "That really does create a challenge when you have people who are wanting to have their final days or weeks in the hospice and there just isn't space."
Huron Hospice has four beds, but will soon begin construction to add two more, noting the bed shortage in the country.
"The big thing in our case, at Huron Hospice, we have 12 acres of property on a rural area, very quiet with lots of space for individuals," he said.
Adding more beds will keep more people out of hospitals and have a more comfortable end of life.
"I want to be clear, hospitals do terrific work," said Van Klooster. "But, they're not designed for people when they need quiet, space, and room for other family members to come."
The new rooms will allow beds to be moved out onto a patio for those who want to be outside but can't get out of bed, have room for a rollaway bed for family to stay overnight, and a reflection and children's activity room will both be added.
"I'm really looking forward to the time when there are more hospice beds that are available," he said. "The other thing is it's way less expensive than being in a hospital bed. In Huron County, the average day in a hospital bed is around $1,200. Once we get our six beds, it will be about $300 a day."
Van Klooster estimates the new beds will be in operation in the spring or summer of 2024.
