DELTA (NEWS1130) – The MLA for Delta South is upset after a decision by Fraser Health to start charging a fee to use a wheelchair in seniors’ homes.

News1130 has learned the charge will go into affect Sept. 1 and those who don’t pay $25 a month will have theirs taken away.

Vicki Huntington says wheelchairs are an essential item so those who can’t afford to pay that fee could wind up bed ridden.

“We’ve all observed steadily rising user fees in the health care system causing undue hardship on our most vulnerable,” says Huntington. “The latest decision by Fraser Health, to charge a $25 monthly fee for wheelchairs and wheelchair cushions has me speechless. It’s as if Fraser Health feels immobilizing the elderly to their beds is acceptable, while basic mobility rights are an elective service of our healthcare system.”

Huntington says on May 31, Fraser Health wrote to the residents of Mountain View Manor, notifying them of the fee. Residents have been told if they can’t afford it, they should meet with a social worker.

“The monthly fee might not seem like a lot to most people, but to the residents of Mountain View Manor, it is a major indignity and stress on their lives. We should not be telling our elders that basic mobility is a privilege they must pay for. In my opinion it’s a human right. They deserve so much more,” Huntington says.

Fraser Health calls it a nominal fee.

“But we realize many residents can’t afford that fee and if this $25 fee causes a hardship there are hardship waivers, if residents are currently getting disability benefits or receiving premium assistance,” says spokesperson Tasleem Juma.

She says the policy is being changed in order to maintain the wheelchairs, for things like replacing the cushions and fixing the tires.

Huntington is asking the health authority to meet with her to discuss an alternative way to raise money.