Funding for Hospital Equipment Upgrades
Government is investing nearly $7.5 million in equipment upgrades to ensure hospitals are well-equipped to provide the best care for Nova Scotians.
The investment in health care announced today, May 23, includes new beds, diagnostic and surgical equipment, and drug storage systems.
"In our busy health-care facilities, regular equipment upgrades are important to ensure we have the right tools to provide quality patient care," said Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.
The investment includes:
- $2.7 million for computerized drug storage and dispensing systems in South West, Annapolis Valley, Cumberland, Pictou and Capital district health authorities
- $2.2 million for diagnostic and treatment equipment including upgrades to two CT scanners at the IWK Health Centre and replacement of dialysis machines at the Northside General and Cape Breton Regional hospitals
- $1.4 million for surgical equipment including operating room lights for the IWK and the Victoria General Hospital
- $609,642 for monitoring and ventilating equipment including a cardiopulmonary bypass machine for the IWK, and cardiac monitoring systems for the Dartmouth General Hospital
- $545,108 for beds and cribs at the Halifax Infirmary and the IWK.
Anne McGuire, president and CEO of the IWK Health Centre, said they are pleased the IWK will be receiving new medical and diagnostic equipment.
"This will directly benefit the care of the women, children, youth and families served by the IWK each day," said Ms. McGuire. "The province's investment in new technology, equipment and infrastructure allows our staff and physicians to provide the best possible care using the most up-to-date tools available."
The department has set aside $18 million for hospital equipment replacement and upgrades this year. District health authorities made requests which were evaluated and prioritized. As requests are approved, districts tender for their equipment.
A complete list of equipment upgrades is available at http://novascotia.ca/DHW/Investments-2014-15-Hospital-Equipment/ .