Accessing Long Term Care
Accessing Long Term Care
In Vancouver, there are 2 ways a person can access LTC:
From the Community:
If a person is living in their own home, apartment or assisted living facility, a Case Manager from Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) must be contacted to do an individual assessment to determine what sort of supports they require. If the assessment identifies that LTC is the needed care level, a person is placed on a waiting list for a LTC level Bed.
From the Hospital:
If a health issue has resulted in a hospital stay, and a person can not safely discharge back into the community, a hospital Transition Service Team (TST) member will assess the individual’s needs and place the person on a LTC wait list if required.
Getting an assessment
To arrange for an assessment for someone living in Vancouver, call 604-263-7377
For more information on accessing LTC including eligibility requirements, cost etc. visit:
VCH – Long-Term Care Homes
BC Government – Long Term Care Services
Introduction to LTC Handbook
This handbook is from VCH:
https://vch.eduhealth.ca/en/permalink/phem2280
Choosing Your Preferred LTC Home
Regardless of how a person comes to live in LTC, they and their family are asked to identify up to 3 care homes they prefer to live in, which is considered in the placement process.
Most homes provide in-person or virtual tours. For information about tours at St. Jude’s visit: Tours
If your loved one is placed in a home not on your list, you can request a transfer to a home on your preferred list. The pros and cons need to be weighed. If the person is settled in the new home, could a move upset them?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bed?
VCH is in charge of the waiting list. They decide who goes to what home and when based on criteria such as need and whether the person is safe where they are. If you need to know where your loved one is on the waiting list, ask your case worker.
How Much Does LTC Cost?
The fee for a publicly subsidized LTC bed is set by the BC Government. It is based on your income. There is a minimum and maximum monthly rate.
