Bracebridge Mayor, Rick Maloney, said that local share for hospital funding needs to change, in the November 13, 2024, Council meeting.

Maloney expressed that the past 10 months have been challenging for the community, which resulted in a “divisive process” while advocating for the Town’s needs with the Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare MACH) Board.

He advised that many communities across the province “are not asked for municipal contributions” but rather fund their hospitals through foundations.

“It’s small rural urban centres like Muskoka that are always challenged with contributing with local share… There are limits as to what a community can do realistically.”

Maloney said that he has spoken with the Minister of Health about the challenges with the local share concept.

He suggested that there are “better systems regarding hospital funding,” and expressed the importance of moving away from “have and have not communities.” He added, “It should be equal through all communities.”

Communication was another matter of concern. Maloney emphasized there’s “a need for a better way for community voices to be heard regarding healthcare and hospitals.” He added, “We’ve lost that component between the community.”

The lack of communication between the community and MACH was a concern for him “because we did not have that connection with our community hospital board.” He advised that this will be another area of focus moving forward.

He said there is more work to be done when it comes to the hospital interacting with the community, “and ensure the community receives the best healthcare in Bracebridge and Muskoka.”

He also expressed appreciation to the doctors in the Town for their involvement, insight, advice, and support, while advocating on behalf of the needs of the community.

He said that he will continue to raise awareness and advocate about the issues moving forward.