Providing the best care requires more than dedicated caregivers and top-notch equipment - it requires flexible facilities that can meet our health care needs now and in the future.
That's why Capital Health is proposing a major upgrade to the QEII Health Sciences Centre that includes an addition to the Halifax Infirmary. The suggested plan is to add five stories to the top of the Charles V. Keating Emergency and Trauma Centre: three floors designated for 150 beds, one for mechanical services and the other to replace the VG site's 16-20 ORs. In addition, some services from the QEII would be transferred from the Halifax Infirmary and Centennial Building to the Dartmouth General Hospital, for which Capital Health is also proposing upgrades as part of the Innovative Care, Flexible Facilities project.
The proposed facilities would provide patients with an even better experience by providing innovative and flexible care. For example, areas could be designed to accommodate a variety of needs. Depending on patient flow, rooms could be equipped to handle patients from different services.
This project needs to be reviewed and approved by the Department of Health and Wellness. The business case, developed in partnership with William Nycum & Associates, and Smith Group JJR, includes a preliminary design (pictured above) and high-level cost estimates. As the project moves ahead and designs are more specific, costs will become clearer.
Although we have put forth an initial design, you can expect it to change and evolve as we continue to gather recommendations and input from staff, physicians and members of the community. The QEII Health Sciences Centre is your health community and it is critical that the design reflect your wishes. We encourage you to visit our website, cdha.nshealth.ca/about-us, to learn more about this project. As well, please email your feedback to: ICFF@cdha.nshealth.ca. By working with you, we can ensure the QEII Health Sciences Centre continues to provide the best patient experience and care.
Bill Levangie is Capital Health's Manager of Engineering Services and project lead for facility renewals.
