January 20, 2020
LETHBRIDGE – Renovations are underway to the Chinook Regional Hospital morgue that will improve the facility’s infrastructure and help Alberta Health Services (AHS) continue caring for recently deceased patients with dignity and respect.
Planning for these upgrades started before the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and is not related to AHS’ COVID-19 response.
The current refrigerated unit in the hospital’s morgue was constructed in 1988 and aging equipment was becoming increasingly difficult to repair as some replacement parts are no longer available.
During renovations and the closure of the morgue, a temporary, climate-controlled trailer has been positioned at the hospital to accommodate the facility’s needs.
The project was prioritized for funding in late 2019 and design work began following approval of the project under the Government of Alberta’s Infrastructure Maintenance Program. Following preliminary work in December, full construction began this month and is anticipated to be complete by the spring.
These facility upgrades are among several going on across South Zone, as AHS works to ensure our patients have the highest level of care possible and our staff have the proper equipment to safely and efficiently do their jobs.
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.
