The Ontario government is investing an additional $6 million to modernize and expand Stevenson Memorial Hospital.
The funding will support the planning of the first phase of the hospital’s redevelopment, including a new addition, and a modern emergency department.
The redevelopment looks to improve access to quality care for families in Simcoe County, and to build a more resilient health system that is better able to respond to crisis.
“This investment will go a long way to ensure we continue to move forward on our redevelopment planning, in particular working on a Stage 3 submission,” says Jody Levac, President and CEO, Stevenson Memorial Hospital.
“Costs associated with infrastructure projects are rising significantly, so this funding couldn’t be more important to us at this time."
The first phase of the hospital’s redevelopment will expand the emergency department to triple its current size.
This phase will also include a new hospital front entrance, and more parking. This is in addition to the expanded services announced in March, including more diagnostic and surgical services, and a new birthing suite.
The redevelopment is also planned to have space for nine new inpatient beds - for a total of 47.
"Expanding services will mean that we are better prepared to respond and can act quickly," said Doug Downey MPP for Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte.
"People want to feel confident that when they need help, help will be available. This redevelopment goes a long way to ensure that in our community."
This investment will add to the $1 million already invested by the government in 2019, bringing the total to $7 million to plan the hospital’s new infrastructure, and upgrade its facilities.
“Investing in the redevelopment of Stevenson Memorial Hospital is another way our government is building a stronger, more resilient health care system that will keep our province open,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.
“The expansion of services and new, modern spaces will ensure the hospital can provide patients and families in Simcoe County with much-needed services close to home.”
Feature image - file photo - Barrie 360
