‘Multi-Year Strategy To Reform Health System’
Minister of Health & Seniors Jeanne Atherden held a press conference this afternoon to answer questions regarding initiatives mentioned in the 2016 Throne Speech, saying that the Ministry is “actively pursuing” major initiatives such as the Premier’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition; the Long Term Care Action Plan; and a variety of initiatives designed to keep seniors in their homes as long as possible.
Minister Atherden said, “The Ministry of Health and Seniors is implementing its multi-year strategy to reform the health system: the Bermuda Health Strategy and Action Plan. Our goal is to deliver affordable, sustainable, quality healthcare for all of Bermuda’s residents.
“The future healthcare needs of our community are being determined by the changes we see in disease patterns and the demographic shift to an ageing population.
14-minute live video replay with Minister Jeanne Atherden
“The onset of chronic, non-communicable diseases [NCDs], such as diabetes and heart disease, happens at an early age in Bermuda.
“For example, three out of every four adults are obese or overweight. This can lead to serious medical problems that can have a terrible effect on the individual.
“But that’s not all, these nation-wide medical problems can impose a serious cost burden on the healthcare system. This is of great concern to the Ministry.
“We also need to meet the needs of Bermuda’s seniors and people with physical, cognitive or mental disabilities, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
“Put simply, there are more seniors than there have ever been, and our people are getting sick with lifestyle-related diseases at a younger age.
“This double demand will put considerable strain on our heathcare workforce, our families and our finances. This is a critical time for Bermuda; we need to plan now for a healthier future.
“That is why the Ministry is actively pursuing these major initiatives:
- The Premier’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, which educates children at an early age about health and fitness to help prevent the onset of lifestyle-related non-communicable diseases
- The Long Term Care Action Plan, which addresses quality of care needs, the development of healthcare staff for long-term care and educating the public about long-term care issues
- A variety of initiatives designed to keep seniors in their homes as long as possible, where they are happier and healthier, and thus freeing up beds in residential care facilities for those who need them most
“Other initiatives include a Chronic Disease Register. Chronic diseases—such as diabetes, kidney and heart disease—place an increasing burden on our healthcare system. Knowing the hard data, which will be compiled by both public and private healthcare practitioners, will help us plan for the future.
“BHB will establish a “medical home” program, to reduce “revolving door” or repeat hospitalizations and inappropriate use of emergency services to control chronic diseases.
“Following the successful amendments to the Pharmacy and Poison Act 1979 and the Misuse of Drugs Act 1972, Government will consider allowing herbal supplements containing Cannabinol to be imported.
“The Ministry will also work with the long-term care system to ensure affordable and financially-sustainable care, including the development of private sector incentives to invest in the development of long-term care.
“My government believes that this year’s Throne Speech includes initiatives that will provide the support that is critical to our population.”
Yeah – its called eating better food…