Health and Community Services
June 21, 2014

Strengthening Health Care Services

Over $640,000 to Support Health Care Services in New-Wes-Valley

The Brookfield/Bonnews Health Centre and Bonnews Lodge in New-Wes-Valley will receive approximately $640,000 for repairs, renovations and equipment, providing residents with continued access to quality health care services.

“An investment of more than $640,000 will improve services and equipment at the Brookfield/Bonnews Health Centre and Bonnews Lodge and reflects our commitment to meeting the health care needs of patients and their families. These upgrades and equipment will play an integral role in supporting the health of our residents in New-Wes-Valley and surrounding communities.”
- The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Health and Community Services

An investment of $425,000 will be used to renovate the x-ray room at the Brookfield/Bonnews Health Centre in preparation for the replacement of the existing x-ray equipment. As well, a fire barrier will be installed between the second and third floors of the building in order to enhance fire protection. This funding will also be used to replace a number of pipes at Bonnews Lodge to ensure that the water line remains secure and the building is protected from water damage.

“This investment in renovations and new equipment at the Brookfield/Bonnews Health Centre and Bonnews Lodge is significant for the people of the region. It demonstrates government’s continued commitment to the provision of quality, accessible health care for residents throughout the province.”
- Eli Cross, MHA for Bonavista North

New equipment will be also be purchased for the health centre at a cost of $215,800. Purchases will include a replacement x-ray machine and new adjustable geriatric chairs which reduce sitting pressure, lower the incidence of falls and improve the comfort of patients. Additionally, this funding will provide a bariatric scale and chair – specialized weight scales that provide a more comfortable exam for bariatric patients who experience limited mobility.

“This is an important investment for Brookfield/Bonnews Health Centre as it will allow us to upgrade important diagnostic imaging equipment, in this case x-ray. I am also very happy to see continued investments in long-term care at Bonnews Lodge that will enhance the quality of life for residents. We are pleased to continue to partner with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to identify key areas that require investment, and I'm very pleased to see these investments in modern equipment in this rural site.”
- Rosemarie Goodyear, President and Chief Executive Officer, Central Health

Since 2004, the Provincial Government has invested nearly $1.5 billion in health care infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador. Budget 2014: Shared Prosperity, Fair Society, Balanced Outlook includes an investment of $50.4 million for new equipment and $20 million for repairs and renovations.

QUICK FACTS

  • The Brookfield/Bonnews Health Centre and Bonnews Lodge will receive over $640,000 to upgrade infrastructure and equipment.
  • $425,000 will be used to renovate the x-ray room, replace pipes and install a fire barrier. $215,800 will be used to purchase an x-ray machine, adjustable geriatric chairs and a bariatric scale and chair.
  • Budget 2014: Shared Prosperity, Fair Society, Balanced Outlook includes an investment of $50.4 million for new equipment and $20 million for repairs and renovations.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

Heather MacLean
Director of Communications
Department of Health and Community
Services
709-729-1377, 697-4137
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca
Donna Ivey
Communications Manager
Government Members Office
709-729-3551
donnaivey@gov.nl.ca
Stephanie Power
Director of Corporate Communications
Central Health
709-256-5532
stephanie.power@centralhealth.nl.ca

2014 07 21                                        2:00 p.m.