Bill 192, Patient-to-Nurse Ratios for Hospitals Act, 2024

EXPLANATORY NOTE

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.

Bill 192 2024

An Act to amend the Health Protection and Promotion Act with respect to maximum patient-to-nurse ratios

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.