The Muskoka and Area Ontario Health Team (MAOHT) has announced the hiring of Natalie Bubela as Executive Lead to head its Alternate Level of Care (ALC) Steering Committee.

Bubela, the former CEO of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, will guide the development of a strategy to address ALC challenges in Muskoka and Almaguin.

Currently, about 30% of patients in local hospitals are classified as ALC, meaning they no longer need acute care but cannot be discharged.

The new strategy aims to provide community-based solutions, reduce hospital strain, and ensure patients receive care in appropriate settings.