It was announced on January 25 that St. Francis Memorial Hospital (SFMH) is one of 128 hospitals throughout the province to receive funding through the province’s Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund (HIRF).
In a media release John Yakabuski, MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, said:
The health and safety of patients and families is a priority for our government. That’s why we must make the necessary investments in our hospitals now, to ensure our providers have the facilities they need to continue to provide excellent quality care to patients. This funding will help ensure hospitals across Ontario are able to make the needed upgrades, improvements and maintenance so patients and families have access to reliable, quality care they expect and deserve.
Through the HIRF program, funds are allocated to hospitals on a priority basis to supplement the hospitals’ capital renewal programs and ensure that facilities remain in a good state of repair. Hospitals that meet the program eligibility criteria can select projects to address based on their own priorities. HIRF funds must be used for costs incurred in the fiscal year in which they are provided.
The funding of just over $520,000 allocated to St. Francis Memorial Hospital will be used for several projects including oxygen manifold replacement, sprinklers for the first-floor main hospital, Asbestos abatement, heating lines and accessible door renovations.
Randy Penney, SFMH CEO, said,
This funding allows us to replace, repair or update aging infrastructure. It is critical in terms of keeping our buildings up to date and ensuring a safe and healthy environment.
Joanne King, Chair of SFMH, stated,
The Board of Directors is delighted to learn of the infrastructure funding from the Government of Ontario. It will ensure a safe, secure and quality environment for the patients, staff, physicians and volunteers of St Francis Memorial Hospital. This funding will also help position the hospital for the future redevelopment of our Emergency Department.
Penney, R. (2019, Jan.25) SFMH to receive funds for infrastructure upgrades [Media release]
Berry, N. (2019, Jan.23) Ontario’s Government for the People Investing in Urgent Hospital Upgrades, Repairs and Maintenance in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke [News release]
Featured photo: Sharon Gardiner
