The Bill amends the Health Protection and Promotion Act by adding a new section 9.1. Section 9.1 sets out maximum patient-to-nurse ratios that the Ministry of Health shall ensure are not exceeded.
His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:
1 The Health Protection and Promotion Act is amended by adding the following section:
Maximum patient-to-nurse ratios
9.1 (1) The Ministry of Health shall ensure that the ratio of patients to nurses does not exceed the following:
1. A patient-to-nurse ratio of 1-to-1 for critical care patients on ventilators.
2. A patient-to-nurse ratio of 2-to-1 for,
i. critical care patients not on ventilators, and
ii. highly dependent patients who need mental health care.
3. A patient-to-nurse ratio of 3-to-1 for specialized care.
4. A patient-to-nurse ratio of 4-to-1 for inpatient and palliative care.
5. A patient-to-nurse ratio of 5-to-1 for rehabilitative care other than on night shifts.
6. A patient-to-nurse ratio of 7-to-1 for rehabilitative care on night shifts.
Same
(2) The mix of nurse practitioners, registered nurses and registered practical nurses shall be as prescribed by the regulations.
Commencement
2 This Act comes into force on the day that is 12 months after the day this Act receives Royal Assent.
Short title
3 The short title of this Act is the Patient-to-Nurse Ratios for Hospitals Act, 2024.