Ontario government supporting Ross Memorial Hospital expansion

DAN CEARNS The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: The Ontario provincial government is committing to helping move a construction project forward, at the Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay.

At an announcement, held at the local hospital, on Thursday, November 14th, MPP Laurie Scott told those in attendance, the government will be investing in the renovation and expansion of the emergency department.

“I’m pleased to be here to announce the provincial government’s funding approval, for the renovation of the Ross Memorial Hospital Emergency Department. The funding is a vital step in supporting the hospital and our healthcare workers to serve our community’s growing needs,” she explained. “The investment will enhance patient comfort, privacy and safety in the emergency department.”

MPP Scott added, this investment “builds on the government’s previous investments to the Ross Memorial Hospital.”

Kelly Isfan, President and CEO of the Ross Memorial Hospital, told The Standard, the dollar figures of the investment “can’t [be] released today.”

According to MPP Scott, this renovation project will include “the creation of a new, state-of-the-art mental health emergency services unit,” and “a new trauma room, with improved infection control measures.”

A statement from MPP Scott’s office stated, “the ministry is working with Ross Memorial Hospital to complete early planning and design for this project.”

“A construction schedule will be confirmed, once future planning is complete and the project is tendered and awarded,” the statement added.

Ms. Isfan called this investment, “a transformational announcement” and “a great day” for the hospital.

Christine Norris, Chair of the hospital's board of directors, stated, the hospital needs to focus on growing, to serve a growing population and changing demographics. “Today is a significant milestone in the future of Ross Memorial Hospital and how it looks,” she said.