Dr. Eric Hoskins addressed a full room at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital on Monday afternoon as he announced $500,000 in support from the province for planning stages of the new hospital development. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
The grins were from ear to ear at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Eric Hoskins, the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, made an announcement on Monday afternoon, many had been waiting for.
The new hospital will provide patients with a range of services all in one location, meaning people won’t have to travel to Belleville or Kingston as frequently.
Prince Edward County Mayor Robert Quaiff speaks during the funding announcement at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital. (Photo: Amanda Smith/ Quinte News)
Mayor Robert Quaiff told those in attendance that he couldn’t stress how important this funding is.
He said the new hospital won’t happen overnight but this is a step in the right direction.
Dr. Hoskins confirmed the hospital will be built but the grant funding is strictly for early planning stages only.
He says the monies will help determine what services and programs should form part of the hospital and the space required to provide those programs and services.
Monica Alyea of the PECMHF says their vision is a little bit closer and a little bit clearer, but doesn’t deny there is still a lot of work to be done.
Prince Edward County has a very unique demographic as they have a very high number of seniors and this hospital can be tailored to fit those needs. The County is also seeing an increase in young families which will be a consideration as well, as this planning stages get underway.
It was also stated they are building a hospital for the future and one that they can still be proud of in 30 years time.
