Work begins on future site of community health centre

New facility will bring community-based services under one roof

LACOMBE — Construction begins today on a new health centre that will bring a wide range of community-based services under one roof.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) will become an anchor tenant in a building now being constructed at 4580 46 St. AHS is expected to lease more than 17,000-sq.-ft. of space, which will become home for health programs and services currently offered at two downtown locations: the Provincial Building and Parkland Place.

Tricon Developments Inc. expects construction to be complete in fall 2019.

“We are very pleased to see this project underway in Lacombe,” says Kimberley Sommerville, Lacombe and Bentley area manager for AHS Central Zone.

“This new community health centre will ensure we’re able to provide care and support to residents in an environment that offers access to services all in one place; where healthcare providers can easily collaborate to provide the best care possible for clients. The new space will also provide us with room to expand programs to meet the future needs of those we serve.”

AHS will move programs in a phased approach once the new building is ready to be occupied.

Among the programs moving to the new community health centre:

• Community health programs, such as immunization clinics; pre- and post-natal support; home care and children’s rehabilitation services, currently offered in the Provincial Building.
• Addiction and mental health services, including seniors outreach nurses; adult and youth addiction services; and adult and youth therapy, currently offered at Parkland Place.

“AHS is focused on enhancing care in the community and providing convenient access to multidisciplinary healthcare teams and resources that keep them healthy and out of hospital,” says Kerry Bales, Chief Zone Officer for AHS Central Zone.

“This new community health centre is a step in that direction. We will continue to keep the community up-to-date as this project progresses, and will work closely with our clients to ensure a smooth transition to the new facility once it is open to minimize any disruption to their care.”

As health services are relocated, the City of Lacombe will repurpose the space in the Provincial Building.

“I welcome the construction of this healthcare facility, as it is an important step towards better community-based care for Lacombe and area residents,” says City of Lacombe Mayor Grant Creasey. “The new community health centre will provide citizens, especially young families and seniors, with greater access to the medical care and supports they need.”

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.

- 30 -