Province Supports South Shore Hospital Renovations

Government is moving forward with renovations to the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater.

Premier Stephen McNeil announced two projects today, April 11, to enhance and modernize the almost 30-year-old facility.

"Investing in infrastructure will strengthen important public services along the South Shore," said Premier McNeil. "We are investing in the emergency department and bringing new services to the community."

Government is funding the preliminary design phase of the renovation project. The new design will include renovations to the emergency department and endoscopy unit, and the addition of a dialysis unit.

The province is also supporting the construction of a third elevator in the hospital. Since it was built, the demand on the hospital's current elevators has dramatically increased. A new elevator will improve the flow and transfers of patients through the building and increase safety.

"We’re very pleased the province is committing to modernize this facility, including funding a much-needed third elevator," said Paula Bond, vice-president Integrated Health Services Programs, Nova Scotia Health Authority. "Capital investments in infrastructure help achieve the larger goal of using all health-care facilities more effectively and efficiently, and providing care for patients closer to their homes."

Government will work with Nova Scotia Health Authority to have a preliminary design for the renovations by fall 2017, and construction will begin in fall 2018.

"The purpose of our foundation is to improve local health care, so we are pleased to hear of the expansion of the emergency department at South Shore Regional Hospital," said Phil Bradfield, board chair, Health Services Foundation of the South Shore. "We look forward to seeing the difference this will make in the lives of South Shore residents, and learning more about the expansion plans."

Construction of the new elevator will start in June.

South Shore Regional Hospital opened in 1988. It has 85 inpatient beds, including medical, surgical, intensive care, obstetrics and mental health units.