Ontario Hospital Association Supports Patient-based Payment

TORONTO, March 19, 2012 /CNW/ - The Ontario Hospital Association (OHA) welcomes the Government of Ontario's move to implement patient-based payment for hospitals, which was announced earlier today by Ontario Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Deb Matthews.

The OHA has long supported the principle of patient-based payment plans and the use of standardized funding formulas, such as the Health-Based Allocation Method (HBAM), to incent and reward efficiency and quality and to recognize population needs.

Like any significant changes in the health system, effective implementation is essential, and Ontario's hospitals appreciate the government's plan to consult and engage hospitals along the way in order to ensure that health system improvements effectively meet patients' needs.

"With thoughtful implementation, evidence demonstrates that there is great potential for patient-based funding to improve consistent use of best practices, equitable allocation of resources, and efficiency throughout the health system, which ultimately translates to better patient care outcomes," says Mark Rochon, OHA Interim President and CEO.

About the OHA:
The Ontario Hospital Association (OHA) is the voice of Ontario's public hospitals.  Founded in 1924, the OHA uses advocacy, education and partnerships to build a strong, innovative and sustainable health care system for all Ontarians.

Amy Ouellette, OHA Public Affairs
416-205-1433; [email protected]