A glowing review of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC)’s redevelopment proposal appears likely to get Bracebridge council back on board with a $10M commitment to the new hospital build.
During the upcoming Nov. 5 Bracebridge general committee meeting, councillors will receive a review of MAHC’s redevelopment proposal, as prepared by Medcura Health. They will also vote on whether to confirm a $10 million contribution to the project.
In September 2023, council agreed to contribute $10M in funds, land or in-kind goods or services for a new Bracebridge hospital. However, in July of this year, they voted to withhold that funding over concerns that the plans did not include enough new beds at the Bracebridge site.
It appears adjustments made by MAHC last month to include 10 more beds in Bracebridge might be enough to turn the tide.
In their report, Medcura finds that although the 36-bed model may have been adequate under normal operating conditions, it would have been stressed during surge events and provided limited opportunities for flexibility and growth. The final proposed model, which includes 10 additional beds in Bracebridge, provides a sufficiently robust local solution, according to the consultant.
The review was based on MAHC’s current capital redevelopment proposal, including for both sites: expanded emergency departments; labour and delivery services; ICU capacity; and general surgery, as well as non-duplicated services separated between the sites.
Medcura also highlights the value of the provincial government’s support and the importance of capitalizing on the opportunity for significant health care investment for the area.
Not all hospital beds are created equal, the report indicates, and the types of services to be delivered in Huntsville require more beds and more physical footprint due to the long stays those patients will experience.
Medcura believes that, although recruitment and retention is a challenge throughout Ontario, healthcare workers will be attracted to the Bracebridge site as it will provide more predictability given the scheduled nature of many of the services to be delivered.
The General Committee meeting takes place at 9 am in the Council Chambers and can be viewed online at the Town website.
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