The ROI of Safe Patient Handling Programs in Canadian Long-Term Care
The ROI of Safe Patient Handling Programs in Canadian Long-Term Care
The Economic Impact of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
In Ontario, 35% of all workplace claims in 2023 were related to MSD injuries. For the healthcare sector, this represents a significant financial drain. Manual overexertion during lifting, pushing, and pulling is the primary mechanism for these injuries. Beyond the direct costs of claims, facilities face indirect costs such as overtime for remaining staff and the high price of agency nurse "purchased hours."
Summary: MSDs are a leading driver of lost-time claims, creating both direct financial liabilities and staffing instability.
Takeaway: One prevented serious injury can offset the cost of multiple lifts.
Operational Efficiency with the Freedom Aqua
MedSupply is the exclusive distributor in Canada for the Freedom Aqua Waterproof Patient Transfer Lift. Subject to facility policy, resident assessment, and provincial OHS guidelines, this device may allow for single-caregiver operation during hygiene transfers. This reduces the "two-person lift" requirement common with traditional hoists, allowing for better allocation of nursing resources during busy shifts.
ROI Calculation: The Business Case
To calculate the ROI of an SPHM program, facilities must weigh the initial equipment investment against the reduction in WSIB premiums and recruitment costs.
Return on Investment (ROI) Formula:
ROI = [(Prior Year Injury Costs − Post-Intervention Costs) × 100] ÷ Initial Equipment Investment
Most facilities report that mechanical lifts pay for themselves within 15 to 40 months of implementation.
Safety and Compliance Note
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), employers are required to provide information and instruction to workers regarding hazards. Implementing ergonomic controls like the Freedom Aqua helps fulfill these legislative duties while protecting the facility's most valuable asset: its people.
B2B CTA: Speak with MedSupply about lift deployment, training, and bulk pricing.
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