December 30, 2023

Top 10 stories of 2023: #3

BY SOUTHGREY.CA STAFF — It was in February of 2021 when we announced the start of construction for the new Markdale hospital. 18 months later, the building was officially opened as many local and provincial dignitaries participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford.

The facility was originally planned to have four short-stay beds, better adapted to new non-surgical procedures and one palliative care bed to replace traditional inpatient beds. Almost one year after first shovels hit the ground, and with construction in full swing, it was announced that additional beds had been approved for the facility, bringing the total to eight inpatient beds, as opposed to the five-bed model the Ministry of Health approved.

The new hospital also boasts:

• A modern, 24/7 emergency department with four exam and treatment areas with improved space for staff and patients.
• A bigger space to double outpatient care and expanded procedural services including minor procedures
• Access to clinical laboratory and diagnostic imaging services, ambulatory clinics, space for visiting specialists and inter-professional teams, and expanded telemedicine services
• An ambulance bay for two ambulances

Attention on the formal opening was shared by protesters who gathered at the road entrance to the hospital voicing their displeasure with the Ontario government but respectfully, they remained off of hospital property.

Brightshores Health System hosted another ceremony — a Come and Go for the greater public on the grounds of the new hospital facility September 15.

Read the full stories:

New Markdale Hospital officially opened as protesters flank the entrance prior to ceremony

New Markdale Hospital has Open House Friday September 15

 

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