A psychiatric patient lived in a Campbellton hospital for more than 20 years before an intervention from the New Brunswick ombud led to her finding a home in the community for the last few months of her life.
That was just one example of a patient living in psychiatric care for far longer than necessary, an investigation by Ombud Marie-France Pelletier has found.
Her latest report calls that patient "Isabelle," and says she was left in restraints at the Restigouche Hospital Centre for extended periods on a daily basis. The ombud began to work with Social Development on finding Isabelle a placement, and eventually she was moved out of the hospital and into a care home.
"Once there, she was able to enjoy more social interactions with her family and peers," the report says.
"Isabelle passed away a few months following her transfer in the community. Nonetheless, her family was grateful for an improved quality of life in her final months."
WATCH | Some would rather be unhoused than live in psychiatric institutions, says expert: People with chronic mental illness stuck in N.B. psychiatric institutions waiting for housing Duration 1:47 New Brunswick's ombud is calling for additional supportive housing for people with severe developmental or intellectual disabilities and me
Continue Reading on CBC News
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.