Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare’s capital redevelopment plan, including hospital site selection, clinical planning, transitional care and community engagement, were all topics of discussion during a meeting with the Save South Muskoka Hospital committee on Oct. 21.
“This discussion was an important opportunity to share information, listen carefully and strengthen understanding of the plan for the future of healthcare in Muskoka,” said Cheryl Harrison, President and CEO of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC). “We remain committed to working with our communities as planning moves forward.”
According to officials, participants also discussed transportation challenges that patients, families and caregivers may face when accessing healthcare services across the region’s vast geographic area.
“This is important because the question is not merely where beds and services are located. It is whether patients and their families can realistically access the care and support they need. We are encouraged by the information shared by MAHC regarding its work to address transportation challenges and recognize this as an important consideration in ensuring equitable access to care.”
During the meeting, MAHC officials shared information about ongoing initiatives to address transportation needs. They also said the organization remains on track with Infrastructure Ontario’s timeline and is awaiting approval of its Stage 1.3 capital redevelopment submission, with an update expected in the coming weeks.
Additionally, officials from both organizations acknowledged the importance of continuing these conversations as planning progresses.
The Save South Muskoka Hospital committee is a group of volunteer healthcare professionals, civic leaders, business executives, and other community professionals who advocate for two mid-sized, equitable hospitals in South Muskoka and Huntsville as part of the current hospital capital redevelopment project, valued at more than $1 billion.
For more information on MAHC’s plan for the two new hospitals, click here.
