Hello, Boozhoo, Bonjour.

As we exit out of this first month of 2025, I have a profound sense of optimism. The past year has undoubtedly presented its challenges, and together, we have demonstrated our resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care for every patient, every time.

To begin, let me say how exciting it is to bring you an update on the evolution of the Cardiovascular Surgery Program (CVS). The CVS program is a monumental step forward in providing comprehensive healthcare to our community – the final link to a full clinical acute care service for our community and region. CVS will require significant investment in both state-of-the-art technology and people. This includes advanced imaging systems, catheterization labs, and minimally invasive surgical equipment. These advancements will ensure we can support and advance cardiovascular care. More importantly, patients will benefit in so many ways, including improving early diagnosis, enhancing treatment options, and providing better overall management of cardiovascular diseases.

Congratulations to the Cardiovascular Surgery Project team and leadership for bringing us closer to getting the CVS Program project readied for the next steps. In case you missed it, the funding for capital implementation (construction) was announced this week – $ 98.9 million towards the estimated $122.2 million cost to complete the project – another major milestone for our Hospital. I would like to thank the Foundation, the Hearts at Home Campaign Cabinet and our community who have raised funds to support this project.

Over the coming weeks or so, you will begin to see some initial activity around the Hospital as we begin this extensive initiative. Next steps will also include working with our partners and stakeholders to finalize our funding and operational needs.

As you may be aware, politically, we are currently in a holding pattern in Ontario. Throughout the coming months until the election concludes, the government will operate under the caretaker convention, a principle ensuring that ministers and officials avoid making major policy decisions, appointments, or commitments that could bind future governments. The caretaker period typically begins with the dissolution of the legislature and continues until the new government is sworn in, ensuring a smooth and democratic transition of power. This convention maintains political neutrality and ensures that newly elected officials can make their own decisions without being constrained by the actions of the outgoing administration.

So what does this all mean for us? It means that routine operations will continue, but any major policy decisions, funding announcements, or appointments that are not urgent or in the public interest will be deferred until after the election. This is necessary and helps ensure that public resources are not used for partisan advantage and that the democratic process is respected. Until then, we will move forward with our current projects and operational initiatives.

Next week is Teaching and Learning Week with many events planned including another opportunity to hear from our dedicated staff who are constantly engaged in research and innovation to enhance the quality of care services we provide. Their commitment to continuous learning and development ensures that we remain leaders in the healthcare industry, always striving to deliver the best possible care to our patients. I hope to see you at the events as we showcase our talents and cutting-edge solutions. 

As we forge ahead, I am confident that this year will be marked by significant achievements and milestones. Our collective efforts will not only enhance the quality of care we provide but also strengthen the bonds within our community.

I hope you will embrace this new year with optimism, determination, and a shared vision for a healthier and brighter future where we will together deliver Exceptional care for every patient, every time. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in healthcare and make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

As always, I welcome your feedback on these blogs or on any other matter. You can contact me at: rhonda.ellacott@tbh.net. I enjoy hearing from you.