Position Statement | NPs as Clinical Directors in Long-Term Care
December 5, 2024
Today, the Government of Ontario introduced the Support for Seniors and Caregivers Act, 2024, which includes a three-year, $114-million suite of investments to enhance the quality of life and care for seniors and their caregivers in Ontario. The legislation will also improve the recruitment of medical directors for long-term care homes by allowing nurse practitioners (NPs) to fulfill this role alongside physicians.
The Nurse Practitioners’ Association of Ontario (NPAO) is pleased to see the Government of Ontario recognizing the work of NPs as leaders in delivering high-quality and compassionate care in long-term care homes across the province, and ensuring that seniors in Ontario have the support they deserve to maintain their health and well-being. NPs bring advanced clinical education and the ability to diagnose and treat illnesses, as well as a deep understanding of policy and regulatory frameworks. The inclusion of NPs as clinical directors is a necessary step to leverage the full extent of their training and expertise.
NPAO looks forward to continuing to work with the Government of Ontario and the Ministry of Long-Term Care to improve resident outcomes and patient care across the province.