New hospital in Fort St. James close to being ready to open

A new hospital being built in Fort St. James is nearing completion, with work expected to be done by Oct. 8, the health ministry announced Wednesday.

"With the facility nearing substantial completion, residents will soon have access to an expanded emergency department, improved diagnostic imaging services, and better primary care in their community," said Health Minister Adrian Dix. "This investment provides health-care professionals with the space and technology they need to deliver advanced care. This significant milestone ensures that people in the North will have access to the care they require close to home, both now and in the future."

The new hospital and health centre will replace the community's outdated facility, the Stuart Lake Hospital, and combine primary, acute, and long-term care services in one location. It will have 27 beds, 18 of which will be for long-term care with nine for acute care.

The hospital will also have an expanded emergency department with two treatment rooms, a trauma bay and an ambulance bay, as well as a larger laboratory and diagnostic imaging (X-ray) centre. It will also have palliative care space.

The total capital cost of the project is $158.3 million, funded by the province through Northern Health, along with an $18.4-million contribution from the Stuart-Nechako Regional Hospital District.

Other northern initiatives include new or expanded hospitals in Prince George, Terrace, Dawson Creek and Quesnel.

"We're fulfilling our commitment to enhance hospital services in remote and rural areas of B.C., ensuring residents receive care in modern facilities within their communities," said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary secretary for rural health. "This new hospital will enable Fort St. James and surrounding communities to access quality care close to home."

The primary-care centre will be integrated with the hospital and long-term care services, giving residents access to doctors, visiting specialists, substance-use supports, public health, and home and community care.

"Bringing all health services under one roof will simplify care and improve efficiency for patients and providers alike," said Colleen Nyce, board chair for Northern Health. "Considering the community's unique needs has been a priority throughout this development. We appreciate the staff and community leaders who engaged with Northern Health at every stage of the project and look forward to showcasing the new facility."

Patients will start being seen at the new facility in January 2025, with demolition of the current hospital expected to begin in early 2025 and full project completion anticipated by September 2025.

"We are thrilled that this vital new facility is on track for substantial completion this fall and opening in early January 2025," said Judy Greenaway, chair of the Stuart-Nechako Regional Hospital District. "This hospital will ensure that residents of Fort St. James have local access to quality medical care and will support the attraction and retention of medical staff. This project addresses the unique health-care challenges faced by rural communities, improving access to diagnostic services and reducing the need for medical travel."