Work will begin this week on a new in-patient unit at the University Hospital of Northern B.C.
By the time it's finished, the hospital's second floor will be home to a 24-bed unit with exercise-rehabilitation, dining and common lounge areas.
IDL Projects was awarded an $8-million contract to carry out the work, which is expected to be completed by early next year.
The provincial government is contributing
$4.8 million and the Fraser Fort George Regional Hospital District is covering $3.2 million.
"Government is working with our partners to bring together health-care professionals to create a team-based approach to better meet the needs of people," said Health Minister Adrian Dix.
"The new inpatient unit at UHNBC is supported by this strategy, helping patients get back home sooner after their hospital stay, cared for by physicians at the hospital."
Visitors and patients are asked to pay close attention to construction signs.
