Is Burnaby about to get a replacement for its aging hospital?
That’s the speculation as the Province of BC gave notice of a press conference tomorrow (Tuesday) at noon with both Premier John Horgan and Health Minister Adrian Dix in attendance. Horgan does not normally attend press conferences for health announcements that aren't significant in scope.
Also listed are representatives with Fraser Health and the Burnaby Hospital Foundation.
During the 2017 B.C. election, Horgan announced plans for a new $2.1-billion hospital for Burnaby if elected.
In February of 2018, Dix told the NOW that the process of announcing a new hospital was getting closer.
“We’re obviously working hard on business planning there and working hard on the project. John Horgan made real commitments to people in Burnaby during the election campaign and we’re working to implement those in the best possible way. We are making progress and we will let people know,” said Dix. “There’s no waiting until next year. We’re working full steam ahead on health care in Burnaby.”
To show the process was proceeding, Dix pointed out to the NOW that Fraser Health has posted a tender in December 2017 for someone to manage the business plan process.
The original building was constructed in the 1950s, with additions make along the way. Rumours have been swirling for months that a new hospital could be announced.
Burnaby Hospital currently has 286 beds that offers medical, surgical, obstetric, tertiary palliative, psychiatry, as well as 24-7 emergency services.
The hospital has more than 70,000 visits annually.
- With files from Grant Granger
