Lakeridge Health resumes Master Plan priorities with independent site selection process for proposed new hospital
Durham Region – While Lakeridge Health continues to remain vigilant during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, planning has resumed on the commitment to build a long-term, robust and integrated, regional health care system for the residents of Durham Region.
“As we manage this third wave, we are beginning to re-focus on system building, as part of our vision of One System, Best Health.” said Cynthia Davis, President and CEO, Lakeridge Health. “While we resume this important work, it will be critical that key pandemic learnings, and how the delivery of medical and health care has changed as a result, inform the future development of the Lakeridge Health system.”
The proposed development of a new hospital in Durham Region is a major component of the hospital’s Master Plan, which serves as a roadmap for the future of health care delivery in Durham Region. Based on demand, evidence, and growth projections, Lakeridge Health is planning for inpatient bed growth of almost 1,000 beds to meet projected demand over the next 25 years. Anchoring this plan are recommended key capital investments and upgrades, including the expansion and redevelopment of Bowmanville Hospital and the new hospital.
Lakeridge Health’s Board of Trustees has determined that an important step forward is launching the process for identifying and protecting a site for a proposed new hospital
“This will benefit all of Durham Region and define the future of a coordinated system of health care for generations to come,” said Sharon Cochran, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Lakeridge Health. “It will be important that the path forward focuses on unified support of a new hospital facility in Durham Region, the learnings of other hospitals, and the siting requirements required to support our Master Plan.”
Independent Expert Panel – Site Selection Process
This work to protect a site for a proposed new hospital will be focused on a clear, transparent, and well-communicated process. It will be overseen by the Board of Trustees and implemented by an Independent Expert Panel. The Panel will be supported and guided by an independent Executive Lead, and a Fairness Advisor will also be appointed.
The Independent Expert Panel will be responsible for all aspects of the site selection process, including establishing criteria to evaluate each site that is brought forward from interested parties. After evaluating all site proposals, the Panel will make a recommendation for the preferred site to the Board of Trustees, who will then make a recommendation to the Minister of Health on which site to protect for future hospital use.
As this process unfolds, Lakeridge Health will announce additional details on the Independent Expert Panel, the selection process, and timelines. The process will include regular communications and opportunities for community input at defined milestone activities.
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For information contact:
Communications@lh.ca
