Government continues commitment to health infrastructure

Julie Bettney, Minister of Health and Community Services, today announced $51 million to upgrade health infrastructure. Since 1996-1997 the province has committed over $500 million in building and upgrading health facilities and purchasing capital equipment.

In Budget 2002 Government will invest $31 million to support ongoing capital projects. These include:

• $10 million for the James Paton Hospital Redevelopment, Gander. The total cost of this redevelopment is $69 million. Project status - The new extension is well underway and will be completed this summer. The renovations to the existing facility will start next fall and are scheduled for completion by summer 2004.
  
• $18.7 million to continue work on the new Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital in Stephenville. The total budget for this project is $34.5 million. Project status - The building envelope is nearing completion and the interior will start shortly. The facility is expected to be ready for occupancy in summer 2003.
  
• $1 million for design work for the new Grand Bank Health Centre which has an estimated total cost of $17.3 million. Project status - Tenders to be called as soon as design work is complete.
  
• $800,000 for the Fogo Island Health Centre. The estimated total cost of the project is $9.7 million. Project status - The tender for Phase I (foundations) will be awarded shortly and construction will start when weather conditions allow. The tender for Phase II (main building construction) will be called in September 2002 with work starting in spring 2003. This facility is currently scheduled for occupancy by summer 2004.
  
• $500,000 for continued planning to address long-term care needs for residents in the Clarenville area.

A further $15 million will be invested in capital equipment including general x-ray equipment, ultrasound, information technology, therapeutic equipment, and equipment for residential care needs in nursing homes. Also included in this allocation is $200,000 to begin a program to equip ambulances with defibrillators.

Government will also spend $5 million for repairs and renovations at health facilities across the province to address life and safety issues. Roof repairs and window replacements will also be done to provide a more comfortable environment for patients, residents and staff.

"We will continue our efforts to have safe facilities which meet the needs of our health professionals and patients," said Minister Bettney.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-1377.

2002 03 21                          3:10 p.m.