On Jan. 31, the federal government released national LTC standards – a move RNAO had long advocated for. RNAO is “disappointed the federal government failed to make these standards mandatory, leaving in place patchwork approaches across and within provinces and territories.” The standards also don’t specifically outline the necessary staffing and skill-mix levels needed in LTC homes – a key part of ensuring quality care for all residents. RNAO has previously highlighted the importance of ensuring LTC residents receive adequate care through the Nursing Home Basic Care Guarantee, which highlights the need for four worked hours of direct nursing and personal care per day per resident. (Toronto Star, Jan. 31)