First phase of renovations complete at local hospital

STETTLER – The first phase of a $9.3-million renovation project at the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre is now complete with the construction of a new pharmacy and gift shop, as well as slight modifications to the cafeteria.

The hospital’s first two labour and delivery suites are now being built as part of the Phase 2 renovations, which started last month. Phase 3 renovations, to begin in the new year, will include emergency department upgrades, as well as further kitchen and cafeteria enhancements.

When the work is done, patients, families, physicians, staff and volunteers will benefit from improved patient flow, increased safety, more privacy and enhanced quality of service. “It’s so gratifying to see this portion of this important work complete,” says Diane Palmer, site manager of the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre.

“These renovations are significant and will have a range of benefits for our facility and those we care for. Like us, I know the community will be thrilled with the final changes once this major project is complete as it will help ensure we’re able to deliver the best care possible in a safe and functional environment for years to come.”

Funding for the project comes from the Government of Alberta’s Infrastructure and Maintenance Program.

“This ongoing project will improve the care and services at the Stettler hospital and ensure patients and families have access to modern facilities that place them at the centre of health care,” says Tyler Shandro, Alberta’s Minister of Health.

“Our government is committed to investing in capital projects like this to ensure Albertans receive quality health services in their communities, hospitals and medical facilities. Thank you to Alberta Health Services and the Stettler Health Services Foundation for working with us to strengthen Alberta’s public health system.”

The Stettler Health Services Foundation, which works with the community to make decisions about how best to allocate health related donations, is raising funds to support the renovations.

To date, the foundation has raised $250,000 for equipment and furnishings for the labour and delivery suites. Now, the group is focused on raising approximately $400,000 for the purchase of emergency department equipment.

The renovation project was developed following input from 18 stakeholder groups – including physicians, staff and community members – who reviewed the hospital’s use of space and identified priority areas for improvement.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.