Political economy of resource allocation in Ontario long-term care facilities: How does funding affect the risk of mistreatment?

Abstract

This paper examines the funding procedure in Ontario long-term care facilities and seeks to identify whether current resources for protecting the elderly from mistreatment is allocated fairly and effectively. The research also observes how the political economy may influence the needs-based allocation built to protect seniors from mistreatment in institutional care settings and the consequences of these resources on residents’ autonomy. The topic is also viewed through the lens of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Five experts in the area of long-term care participated in this research work including academics, scholars and institutional or agency advocates. Interviews lasting up to 60 minutes interviews were conducted, transcribed and analyzed using a political economy lens. Participants described their knowledge and experience with the funding procedure for long term-care facilities, particularly in Ontario and provided their view on areas that they felt could be improved. The analysis identified four themes including whether the issue is under-resourced, poor allocation of resources; funding according to need; the struggle to define and assess the quality of care; and general work conditions in long-term care. The result of this research will help us to better understand the resource allocation of Ontario long-term care facilities which could in turn highlight improvements that could be made to create better quality of life for residents as well as frontline workers.