May 26, 2014 (Whistler, BC) (L-R): Claude Gravelle (MP for Nickel Belt), Dr. Diane Finegood (President and CEO, Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research), Mimi Lowi-Young (CEO, Canadian Alzheimer Association), Dr. Chris Simpson (President-elect, Canadian Medical Association) and moderator Kevin Falcon (former BC Deputy Premier and Minister of Health)
Dr. Chris Simpson 
We recently had an elderly relative (87 y.o.) hospitalized for his diabetes, but remained in hospital for 9 months because of the dementia issues he was facing. He was in a surgical unit and, unfortunately, occupied a bed which a surgical patient could have accessed. Hospital was not the preferred place to deal with his issues, but it was the only option available. The CMA is absolutely on the mark in spearheading reforms in this area of patient intervention. We now have him in a suitable care facility which he loves and is thriving. Everyone was trying their best, but the competing silos were not helpful in finding a swifter and more cost effective route than the one we experienced. Good luck with this initiative!