The provincial government is establishing what it calls “Centres of Excellence in Aging”—places that will specialize in geriatric health care, in the coming years.

More than 90 beds will be created at the new St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital for Acute Care of the Elderly (or ACE) units, as well has rehabilitative and restorative care.

Senior-friendly services will also be established along with senior-friendly emergency care at the existing St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital, the new Western Memorial Regional Hospital, and the new emergency department at the Health Sciences Centre.

Planning is also underway for a centre of excellence in central, as well as programming in Labrador.

Health Minister Tom Osborne made the announcement today.

He says the centres and senior-friendly ERs will include training for physicians, and increased training for Nurse Practitioners in the care of the elderly. He says orientation will also be provided to other health professionals on the proper policies and procedures in assessing and caring for the senior population.