More than $1.5 million has recently been invested at the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, including replacement of the duress alarm system, nurse call system, chiller, waterlines, boiler and operating room (OR) lights.  

These projects will ensure the comfort of patients, staff and visitors, and help extend the life of the building. The replaced nurse call system enables patients to alert a nurse or other healthcare staff members as needed. 

“All Albertans, no matter where they live, need and deserve access to our world-class health system, and they need it close to where they live,” says Jason Copping, Minister of Health. “These projects help make that a reality, and are part of our commitment to manage and improve health infrastructure and services across Alberta.”

Funding for these projects came from the Government of Alberta’s Infrastructure Maintenance Program.

“The community is pleased to have these investments in healthcare,” says Ron Orr, MLA for Lacombe-Ponoka. “Investments like these in rural Alberta are an important part in ensuring Albertans have access to healthcare facilities that are safe and secure; places that provide high-quality care when they or their loved ones are sick or injured.” 

AHS, in partnership with Alberta Infrastructure and Alberta Health, is building and renewing facilities across the province to provide accessible, sustainable, quality healthcare to all Albertans. AHS currently has about 540 maintenance projects underway throughout the province.

“The Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre plays an important role in the well-being of this community,” says Mauro Chies, interim Alberta Health Services (AHS) President and CEO. “Continuing to invest in local healthcare equipment and facilities is just one of the ways we are ensuring the healthcare needs of Albertans are being met.”