Northern Health’s Board of Directors discussed progress on capital planning, recent recruitment successes, and the valued support from foundations & auxiliaries at its most recent meeting in Valemount.
Board members heard an update from Northern Health staff on its work with the Ministry of Health on capital plans at various stages of development, including the business planning for hospital replacements in Terrace, Fort St. James, and Dawson Creek & District Hospital and an ICU/Emergency Department at GR Baker Hospital in Quesnel.
“Our facilities are important in ensuring we have a vibrant network of services available to northerners,” said board chair Colleen Nyce. “We have a number of capital projects in various stages of planning and are looking forward to the opportunity to take the next steps, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and our Regional Hospital District partners.”
While in the Robson Valley, the board took the time recognize the McBride & District Hospital Auxiliary as it discussed and celebrated the philanthropy and generosity of fundraising societies across the Northern Health region. A presentation highlighting their commitment and efforts included more than $2 million in funded improvements and initiatives across the health region. Members of the McBride Hospital Auxiliary received thanks for their contribution to the purchase of a new patient lift for McBride & District Hospital -- just one example of the commitment they’ve made in the community.
“The health care foundations and auxiliaries across the Northern Health region are at the heart of our slogan, the Northern Way of Caring,” said Northern Health CEO Cathy Ulrich. “The work they do enriches our ability to provide quality and compassionate care to people and their families.”
Other highlights from the February 2019 meeting include:
- Five Northern Health Hospitals have successfully achieved Accreditation Canada Trauma Centre Designations following a recent Distinction in Trauma Services assessment
- An overview of the work of various Northern Health departments and programs to prepare for legalization of non-medical cannabis, including Public Health guidance around best practices to mitigate the negative health effects of recreational cannabis use
The next regular meeting of the Northern Health Board of Directors will be held April 15, 2019 in Smithers.