Manitoba government expands post-hospital care for homeless, mental health patients

The Manitoba government is opening up more than 100 new spaces for patients who require followup care after being discharged from hospital.

The province says, on average, there are approximately 600 patients in Manitoba hospitals who no longer require emergency care but are waiting for long-term treatment, housing or other community supports. 

The new community spaces are expected to provide more appropriate support for when they are ready to leave a hospital. 

Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara says health centres are seeing a growing number of patients who are better suited for alternative care options, which is placing pressure on emergency departments. 

Spaces are being developed for people experiencing homelessness, transitioning out of mental health facilities and are living with complex cognitive, psychological or behavioural needs.

A mobile support team is also being developed to work with 25 patients in Winnipeg for up to a year. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 6, 2026. 

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