Hello, Boozhoo, Bonjour.

It’s hard to believe May is already behind us. The pace across our Hospital and Health Research Institute has been brisk — and filled with meaningful progress.

I’d like to begin with an update on the Ontario budget as it impacts the way we do business here. This past month, we saw the budget released as many in the health care sector across the province waited to see what was in it for hospitals. The budget announced a $1.1 billion increase to hospital funding, but most hospitals — including ours — this will be a reset year with the focus being on the creation of a hospital sector stabilization plan. While we are expected to receive up to a 3% base funding adjustment – with the potential to receive an additional 1%, without the clarity of our actual funding allocation, we remain unclear as to the impact of any adjustment. As such, we anticipate that hospitals will remain short of the estimated $2.2 billion needed across the province just to keep pace with inflation, rising service volumes, and labor costs. Like many hospitals, we’re facing serious financial pressures, yet we continue to move forward with major initiatives like the Cardiovascular Surgery Program, our Electronic Health Record upgrade, and ongoing infrastructure improvements. This is a testament to your resilience and your commitment to providing exceptional care — despite the headwinds. Thank you for continuing to deliver excellence, every day. I can assure you that I will continue to make our case to decision-makers as I did last week in Toronto. The communities and region we serve have unique and distinct challenges that other parts of the province don’t face — a message I continue to put in front of the Ministry and our elected representatives at every opportunity.

Shifting gears, I would like to offer a huge thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Spring Up to Clean Up. Your efforts make a real difference, not just in how our grounds look, but in how they feel. A tidy, welcoming environment reflects the pride we take in the care we provide. Let’s all continue to do our part in keeping our shared spaces clean and safe.

Please mark your calendars — the Staff Appreciation BBQ is coming! On Wednesday, June 12 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., we’ll gather in the courtyard to celebrate you. This is a moment to recognize how your work supports Strategic Plan 2026 and brings our vision — Exceptional care, every patient, every time — to life. This is the third year of the four-year plan, and I am tremendously pleased with all the progress that you have all contributed to. I hope to see many of you there to celebrate.

Meanwhile, facility upgrades are well underway. There is lots to report on as we move forward with various construction and upgrades throughout our Hospital. Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on patient room finishes and design. These upgrades are more than cosmetic —they’re about creating a brighter, more healing space for patients, families, and staff. Your patience during this work is deeply appreciated.

Starting June 9, we’ll be inviting you to take part in the Health Standards Organization (HSO) Global Workforce Survey. This anonymous survey is a vital part of our accreditation process and gives us valuable insights into workplace safety and culture. Please keep an eye on your inbox — it’s your chance to tell us what’s working and where we can do better. Your voice matters.

TBRHSC is looking ahead to National Indigenous History Month. June offers us an important opportunity to celebrate and learn from the histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. I encourage you to take part in events and conversations throughout the month and to reflect on how we can each support culturally safe, inclusive care.

The Staff Advisory Committee continues to strengthen our organization. Thanks to this group’s thoughtful input, we’ve made tangible improvements that benefit both staff and patients. If you have ideas or concerns to share, I encourage you to reach out to the committee anytime at TBRHSC.StaffAdvisoryCommittee@tbh.net.

Finally, a few signs of spring are finally all around us. I hope you’re finding time to recharge — whether that’s with family, friends, or a four-legged companion.

As always, I welcome your thoughts on this blog or anything else on your mind. Reach me anytime at rhonda.ellacott@tbh.net.