New and Expanded Surgery Department

The Province of Manitoba recently announced that Bethesda Regional Health Centre would be getting 3 new operating theatres as part of the current expansion happening at the hospital.

The expansion will include:

• 3 new operating theatres
• a pre-operative consult room
• 12 patient care spots for pre/post-operative care
• sterile supply room and surgical equipment disinfection and sterilization room
• reception and waiting area for patients and family
• new expanded lab to meet space requirements for modern diagnostic lab equipment
• new cultural space to support multi-denominational services
• expanded space to support physician and resident services, including three on-call sleep rooms

This expansion is urgently needed at Bethesda Regional Health Center. The region has experienced unprecedented growth since 1964, when the current surgery department was built. And predictions are for continued consistent growth going forward. It is imperative that our capacity for medical services keeps up with the region's growth.

The great news comes with a few challenges to overcome. As always, finding funding for large capital projects is not easy. The Bethesda Foundation is proud to play a pivotal role in the solution, as we commit to raising $8 million to bring this essential surgery expansion to completion.

Chair of Bethesda Foundation, Chris Goertzen, says, “We are pleased to be part of this surgery expansion. The $8 million pledge is the largest in the Foundation's history, and is only possible because of the incredible generosity of our donors. Time and again, our donors have stepped up with us, demonstrating their commitment to improving healthcare accessibility in our community. Together, we are making a tangible difference, bringing vital healthcare services closer to home for countless individuals and families.”

Palliative Care Enhancements

Bethesda Foundation has long had a vision to provide enhanced palliative care services in our community. The population over the age of 75 in Steinbach and area is expected to grow by nearly 25% in the next few years. Some of these residents will be in need of acute or long-term palliative care.

Our vision is that there be a peaceful, home-like environment for people to be in during their last chapter of life. This needs to include private rooms for patient dignity, and space for families to gather.

The Province of Manitoba has included capacity for this kind of space in the current expansion that is happening at Bethesda Regional Health Centre. Bethesda Foundation was pleased to be part of the planning in what these enhancements would look like.

Features include:

• 7 enhanced private patient care rooms
• warm paint colors, wood finishes, and artwork for less institutional feel
• view of green space outside
• each room to have technology for patient to be able to do virtual calls with loved ones - smart TV, camera, etc.
• large gathering room for families to gather, with comfortable furniture, fireplace, microwave, coffee maker, etc.
• spiritual room to support multi-denominational services