The government of New Brunswick and Horizon Health Network unveiled a new intensive care unit built in Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. This new addition to the hospital allows it to accommodate the growing population in the province as well as much needed modern features such as pandemic isolation capabilities and medical tools.

After committing to spending 1$76 million in healthcare infrastructure, Health Minister Bruce Fitch explains that New Brunswickers should expect to see similar additions to hospitals across the province.

“The construction of this unit is an important development in the delivery of critical health care for patients in the region,” said Fitch. “Making improvements to provide the dependable public health care that New Brunswickers deserve is one of our government’s priorities. Investing in infrastructure and increasing capacity in our hospitals across the province will provide new, modern facilities to help alleviate pressure on our system.”

With the intention of accessible and critical care in mind, Horizon CEO and interim president Margaret Melanson states that the new intensive care unit can house 12 beds as opposed to the previous eight. With this increased capacity for patients, concerns lean towards the extra 20 staffing positions needed to run the unit in an already understaffed system.

“We are making significant infrastructure improvements at three regional hospitals to improve patient care and upgrade our space and equipment in order to retain and attract health-care professionals. That is why we are pleased to announce the opening of our intensive care unit in Fredericton, which is one of many milestones to come,” said Melanson. “This new space is impressive and will greatly improve the experience for our patients, clients and staff.”

Fredericton residents should expect to see this new ICU unit opened on February 14, 2023. More additions will be announced in the future.