A concerned Saskatchewan citizen is rallying provincial residents to address what he describes as a dangerous gap in long-term care standards that affects every constituency across the province.
Proposed Amendment to Care Standards
Mike Murphy, a born and raised Regina resident, has created a formal petition calling for a critical amendment to Saskatchewan's long-term care regulations. The petition demands that all care staff must not only have access to residents' care plans but must actually read and understand them before providing care.
The current standard only requires staff to have access to care plans, which Murphy argues creates inconsistent care delivery, especially during staff turnover, when coverage comes from other facilities, or when employees return from leave.
Systemic Risks to Vulnerable Residents
According to Murphy, this regulatory gap places many long-term care residents at serious risk of harm or even death. The situation becomes particularly dangerous for residents who cannot advocate for themselves.
"These factors are predictable and common to work around," Murphy states in his appeal, emphasizing that the problem represents a systemic, province-wide issue requiring urgent attention.
The petition, available at change.org/protectLTCresidents, seeks to create a mandatory requirement that would ensure care consistently aligns with established care plans regardless of staffing changes.
Cultural Heritage Investment Needed
In related commentary about provincial values, the writer notes that Saskatchewan's cultural heritage sector requires investment matching its demonstrated value. Museums, historic places, and cultural institutions significantly enrich provincial life while driving tourism and strengthening the economy.
Recent data shows that in 2024, Saskatchewan's cultural heritage sector contributed $73.4 million to GDP and sparked over $2.8 billion in visitor spending.
The latest federal budget shows mixed support, continuing the Canada Strong Pass program that provides free or discounted access to cultural institutions while making unclear commitments to infrastructure investment at the RCMP Heritage Centre in Regina.
Murphy concludes his appeal by thanking Saskatchewan residents for their time and concern about the safety and dignity of long-term care residents, while also acknowledging the importance of properly supporting care staff throughout the province.
