Patience appreciated as Richmond Hospital renovations continue

RICHMOND, BC – As construction continues on the new emergency department at Richmond Hospital, Vancouver Coastal Health is asking for the public’s patience this weekend and into early next week as a portion of the department is relocated into its new, permanent space.

Although staff and physicians will continue to offer full Emergency services 24/7, patients arriving at the ED with non-urgent injuries or illness may face longer than normal waits to be seen.

“As with any renovation of this size and scope, there may be temporary disruptions for patients and staff,” said Susan Wannamaker, Chief Operating Officer, VCH-Richmond. “For this reason, we encourage patients with non-urgent illness or injury to call their doctor’s office or HealthLink BC, or report to their nearest walk-in clinic for treatment. As always, people experiencing a health-care crisis should call 9-1-1 or visit our Emergency Department to seek care.”

Questions pertaining to health care concerns of a non-life threatening nature can call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, 24 hours a day/seven days a week.

Renovations to the Richmond Hospital ED began in the spring. When complete, the renovated ED will be a full 2,000 square feet larger than the current space. The additional space will allow for a larger triage assessment area, increased patient care space, increased isolation and resuscitation capacity and a new urgent care area.

These renovations are part of a $10-million Government of British Columbia funding package that also includes renovations to Richmond Hospital’s emergency department as well as renovations to the hospital’s ambulatory care and sterile processing departments. Funding for these projects was announced spring 2009.

The renovations will improve patient flow, providing faster access to care for the 44,000 people who visit the Richmond Hospital Emergency Department each year.

VCH is responsible for the delivery of $2.9 billion in community, hospital and residential care to more than one million people in communities, including Richmond, Vancouver, the North Shore, Sunshine Coast, Sea to Sky corridor, Powell River, Bella Bella and Bella Coola.

Media contact

Vancouver Coastal Health
Trudi Beutel
Public Affairs Officer
Phone: 604-708-5282
Cell: 604-812-1847
Email: Trudi.Beutel@VCH.ca