The design team has begun work on the challenging task of ensuring that all of the clinical and patient support systems, including computers, pagers, nurse call systems, telephones and clinical monitoring equipment are fully integrated. There have been tremendous advances in the capability of all of these devices in recent years, so every effort will be made to take full advantage of the benefits that this equipment can bring to patient comfort and safety, as well as support to our staff in their work.

We now expect a formal response on the Functional Program for the new hospital in mid-February 2008. The hospital and the design team will then have an opportunity to address any issues of concern, as identified by the Ministry of Health, with a decision expected on approval of the Functional Program in mid-March 2008.

Maureen Solecki
Vice President Strategic Planning, Community Relations & Support Services
Grey Bruce Health Services