Policy Analysis of Provincial COVID-19 Responses and Quality of Care Evaluations in Long-Term Care

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted significant vulnerabilities within Canada's long-term care (LTC) facilities. The necessary care standards in many facilities fell short, which adversely affected the health and longevity of its elderly residents. This analysis examines the responses of Alberta and Ontario governments to the pandemic with respect to management and oversight of LTC facilities, emphasizing legislative and regulatory frameworks, operational practices, and the utilization of quality-of-care indicators. Despite variations in regulatory approaches, both provinces used similar strategies and faced challenges in containing the spread of the virus and mitigating its impact on LTC residents. This analysis shows evidence of the limitations of quality indicators, such as the Resident Assessment Instrument-Minimum Data Set Version 2.0 (RAI-MDS 2.0). These indicators are insufficient to properly inform policy decisions, due to timing gaps and data collection limitations. Overall, both Alberta and Ontario demonstrate a need for comprehensive reforms to strengthen LTC systems and improve responses to future public health crises.