People in Oliver and the surrounding communities will have access to improved patient care, thanks to construction upgrades completed at South Okanagan General Hospital (SOGH).

The renovated emergency department opens to patients on Jan. 21, 2020.

“Our government has invested in an upgraded emergency department at SOGH so that the people living in this community can receive quality health-care services when they need it,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.

“I saw first-hand the need to upgrade the emergency department after touring the hospital in the fall of 2017 and am pleased that health-care workers can continue to provide exemplary care to local residents in the improved space that they deserve.”

The project cost was $970,000. The provincial government contributed 60%, and the Okanagan Similkameen Regional Hospital District funded 40%.

Work was bolstered by a further $280,000 commitment from the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation.

Construction upgrades were done to meet staff and patient requirements as outlined in the project business plan.

They included developing a new waiting and triage area, a quiet room for families and a separate emergency department entrance. The admitting and administration services were relocated, meaning more privacy and convenience for patients.

“People who come to the emergency department are often arriving when they are most vulnerable. These renovations will not only give patients and their families more privacy, but the new entrance also provides clear and direct access to immediate care when it’s needed most," said Doug Cochrane, board chair, Interior Health.

A new team-care station will also enhance working conditions for staff. A private area for physicians enables them to consult with specialists as required.