New Brunswick Regulation 2023-69 introduces several amendments to the existing New Brunswick Regulation 2009-75 under the Nursing Homes Act. This regulation aims to update the language for inclusivity and clarify processes and obligations related to nursing home services and contributions.

The focus of the amendments is on language inclusivity, with the regulation replacing gender-specific terms such as “his or her” and “he or she” with “their” and “they” throughout various sections. This change is reflected in definitions such as “common-law partner” and “net annual income,” ensuring the language is inclusive for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. Additionally, the verification process is clarified in paragraph 3(c), correcting a typographical error to state “has been verified” instead of the incorrect “is has been verified.”

Section 10 specifies that applicants and recipients of nursing home services, along with their spouses or common-law partners living at home, are required to contribute to the cost of these services. This contribution is capped at 40% of their net annual income, calculated according to the updated criteria in Schedule A, emphasizing the financial responsibilities of individuals receiving nursing home care. Furthermore, Section 12 introduces a mechanism for recipients to apply for temporary adjustments in their contribution amounts if they experience serious financial hardship, ensuring that financial contributions do not hinder their ability to afford basic necessities like food and housing.

Schedule A has been revised to reflect the latest financial standards, establishing clear guidelines for calculating contributions based on net annual income while accommodating various household structures and dependent circumstances. The definition of “common-law partner” has been broadened to include all individuals in such relationships, promoting inclusivity and ensuring fair treatment under the regulation. The formula for determining contributions to nursing home services is designed to be proportional to income, with specific thresholds for individuals living alone, with a partner, or with dependents. The regulation also allows for incremental adjustments based on the number of dependents.

The regulation also empowers the Minister to make discretionary adjustments based on individual circumstances, particularly in cases of financial hardship, emphasizing a compassionate approach to care.

New Brunswick Regulation 2023-69 under the Nursing Homes Act updates the framework governing nursing home services in the province. By focusing on inclusive language, financial transparency, and adaptability to individual circumstances, the regulation aims to ensure that the needs of all residents are met with dignity and fairness. These amendments aim at modernizing the regulatory framework and intend such changes to support inclusivity amongst the vulnerable populations in nursing homes.

New Brunswick (2023-69) December 14, 2023