Earlier this year, Ross Memorial submitted an operating plan to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, which indicated an operating budget deficit of $4.3 million. Additionally, the Hospital has incurred more than $440,000 in additional costs related to the SARS emergency.

“We are appreciative of the Premier’s announcement and his government’s commitment to work with hospitals to maintain patient care services,” says Brian Payne, Chief Operating Officer, Ross Memorial Hospital. “The additional base funding will certainly assist us in reducing our current deficit and we look forward to further specifics concerning this funding. As well, SARS took its toll on the province’s hospitals, their staff and physicians and it is definitely good news that this government is following through on their commitment to cover the costs that hospitals have incurred because of SARS.”

“We are also pleased that the Premier has acknowledged that more funds are needed and has agreed to meet with the Ontario Hospital Association after the second quarter, ending September 30th, to reassess hospital finances,” continues Payne.

The Hospital’s deficit is attributable to a number of factors, including higher patient volumes, inflationary cost pressures, and operating deficits carried forward from the previous two fiscal years. As well, as directed by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Ross Memorial did not include any funding increase from the Ministry for 2003/04.