Lillian Fraser Memorial Hospital To Get Upgrades

Residents of Tatamagouche and the surrounding area will have improved access to community health-care services as a result of a $2-million renovation project at the Lillian Fraser Memorial Hospital.

MLA Bill Langille announced the renovation project today, April 14, on behalf of Health Minister Angus MacIsaac.

"Today's announcement is a significant primary health-care investment and will improve health care for the people of this community," said Mr. Langille.

As part of the $2-million investment, Lillian Fraser Memorial Hospital will be upgraded to include additional space to deliver primary health-care services. Renovations will also be made to the hospital's emergency room, inpatient area and space for laboratory services. The project will allow for better use of space and more appropriate service delivery.

The renovations will mean improved access to community health- care teams and will allow the Colchester East Hants Health Authority to provide a broader range of services to patients. As a result, residents will receive the most appropriate care, from the most appropriate provider, when and where they need it.

The project will allow the expansion of satellite services and clinics in the areas of wellness, diabetes, oncology, prenatal care, youth health, drug awareness, life skills education, cardiac care and orthopedic surgery.

"We're delighted with today's announcement," said Peter MacKinnon, CEO of the Colchester East Hants Health Authority. "As a district, we're committed to providing greater opportunities for care close to home. Knowing that the Department of Health not only shares that vision but is willing to act on it is great news for our communities."

Mr. MacKinnon said he is also pleased with the local community's early support for the project. The province will share up to 75 per cent ($1.5 million) of the cost of the project. The remaining $500,000 will be raised by the local community.