ABOYNE – Groves Memorial Community Hospital (GMCH) will officially move from Fergus to the new facility here on Aug. 9.
Officials announced the long-awaited move-in date in a press release on May 29.
“It is hard to believe that is has been nine years since the Government of Ontario provided the approval to build a new Groves Hospital and the Board of Governors are thrilled to see a move date set,” stated Jackie Ranahan, GMCH Board Chair.
“Despite the challenges of COVID-19, great work has been done over the past few months to resolve any deficiencies at the new Groves Hospital building in order to move in August.”
Gord Feniak, chair of the New Groves Hospital Building Committee, thanked all staff and physicians for their preparation work during “challenging times,” including facility plans, receiving furniture and equipment, and ensuring systems are working properly.
Hospital president and CEO Stephen Street explained the next two months will provide employees time for training and orientation “to familiarize themselves with the changes in space, workflow, processes, technology and equipment.”
He added, “We will make sure all staff and physicians feel confident and comfortable for opening day to ensure safe delivery of patient care.”
Ranahan thanked the hospital foundation, volunteers and donors for their “tremendous support in raising funds for the local share and almost all of the new hospital equipment and technology.”
The result, she said, is “an impressive, modern hospital that will support the needs of our communities and rural residents.”
Noting the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, Street said an official grand opening celebration will have to wait for now.
“As much as we would love to have a grand opening and welcome visitors, we will continue to adhere to public health guidance as it relates to limiting visitors,” Street stated.
“We look forward to celebrating the opening of the new hospital with the community when it is safe to do so.”
The new 152,000 square-foot facility sits on 30 acres behind the Wellington County Museum, adjacent to the Wellington Terrace Long-Term Care Home.
For more information about the new Groves hospital visit www.newgroves.net.
Photos by Kelly Waterhouse
