MAHC unveils details on future plan for two new hospitals
Yesterday, Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) shared the details of the proposed Made-in-Muskoka Healthcare system.
The MAHC says the new model resulted from months of planning efforts with staff, physicians and midwives, volunteers, patients and family members and key healthcare partners to explore ways to create a sustainable, affordable and quality-focused approach to service delivery in two new hospitals in Bracebridge and Huntsville.
MAHC’s President & CEO Cheryl Harrison says “We recognize this is proposing a different structure from the status quo in Muskoka for the past 50-plus years,” she says. “We are in a very changed environment since the pandemic. Staggering post-pandemic inflation has driven a 50% increase in healthcare construction costs, and this means that collectively we cannot afford to build our facilities exactly how they are today, she adds.
The Made-in-Muskoka Healthcare model concentrates day surgeries and other outpatient surgical procedures, as well most outpatient exams such as non-urgent imaging, in a new location in Bracebridge. Inpatient care including obstetrical labour and delivery is concentrated in Huntsville with 139 beds for acute care for longer stays.
The community can learn more at the upcoming community chats taking place across the region. Visit mahc.ca/communitychats for more information.
