Bill 192 Original (PDF)
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.