How does the University Health Network's housing initiative reduce ER visits?

By providing stable housing, patients can better manage medications and recover from medical procedures, leading to fewer emergency room visits and shorter hospital stays.

What is the "Dunn House" model mentioned by UHN?

The "Dunn House" is UHN's housing initiative that provides permanent supportive housing to individuals, helping to improve their health outcomes and reduce healthcare system strain.

What funding is supporting Toronto's housing and health program?

The initiative is supported by $21 million from the federal government, $10 million from the City of Toronto, and $2.6 million annually from Ontario for medical support.

Home / Health / UHN Doubles Housing Program to Cut ER Overload

UHN Doubles Housing Program to Cut ER Overload

22 Jan

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Summary

New housing initiative aims to reduce Toronto emergency room visits.
Current residents saw a 52% drop in ER visits and 79% shorter stays.
Expansion receives $21 million from federal and $10 million from city.

UHN Doubles Housing Program to Cut ER Overload

University Health Network (UHN) is significantly expanding its successful housing initiative, the "Dunn House" model, by adding 54 new apartments. This program is designed to alleviate systemic pressure on Toronto's emergency departments.

Preliminary data indicates a 52% reduction in emergency room visits and a 79% decrease in hospital stay length for the 48 current residents. Dr. Andrew Boozary, who conceptualized the program seven years ago, emphasized that "housing is health," as instability hinders patient recovery.

The expansion is a collaborative effort, securing $21 million from the federal government and $10 million from the City of Toronto. Ontario has committed $2.6 million annually for residents' access to a multidisciplinary medical team.