Made in Muskoka Healthcare plan coming under heavy criticism
The first in a series of community chats across the region, both in-person and virtually, start today in Dwight.
The meetings come on the heels of a letter posted by 41 doctors in the Bracebridge area that are critical of the made in Muskoka Healthcare plan about to be made public.
According to reports the new proposal suggests two hospitals with distinct functions. Bracebridge is slated to have a new hospital on a different site, primarily focusing on surgery and outpatient procedures. Meanwhile, according to reports, Huntsville's hospital will transition into a rehabilitation and long-term care facility. Both facilities will maintain emergency departments, but patients in the Huntsville area will need to visit Bracebridge for day surgery, inpatient surgery, and outpatient tests. Huntsville will retain its role as the district stroke center and house the MRI secured by the Huntsville Hospital Foundation. The hospital in Huntsville will primarily offer inpatient beds for rehabilitation or individuals awaiting long-term care placements.
Cheryl Harrison, President & CEO of the MAHC, is expected to clarify the plan tonight at the meeting in Dwight.
Sessions are being held starting January 29th:
Monday, January 29 at 7 p.m. – Dwight Community Centre
Tuesday, January 30 at 7 p.m. – Gravenhurst Terry Fox Auditorium
Wednesday, January 31 at 7 p.m. – Armour, Ryerson & Burk’s Falls Arena Hall
Thursday, February 1 at 7 p.m. – Huntsville Active Living Centre
Tuesday, February 6 at 7 p.m. – Bracebridge Rotary Centre for Youth
Wednesday, February 7 at 7 p.m. – Port Carling Community Centre
Virtual chats are also scheduled on Friday, February 2 at 10:30 a.m. and Monday, February 5 at 7 p.m. Please visit www.mahc.ca/communitychats to register to attend a virtual chat via Zoom, and for more information.
