LETHBRIDGE- Alberta Minister of Health Sarah Hoffman got a firsthand look at where 48 new support living beds will go in Lethbridge. Hoffman was joined by Lethbridge MLAs Shannon Phillips and Maria Fitzpatrick for a tour of Saint Michael’s Health Centre Thursday.
The new beds were announced in February. The first 12 opened earlier this week, with 12 more beds scheduled to open in April.
READ MORE: 48 new supportive living beds coming to Lethbridge
The rest of the new beds will be located in four self-contained “cottages” within the health centre. Each cottage has 12 patient rooms, a common kitchen, eating area, and recreation areas.
Health care professionals will provide 24-hour onsite care support services.
Deb Rakos’ husband, Bob, is a resident of the care facility and she said it’s been a long time coming.
“Bob was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer disease at 57 years old. I have colleagues in Calgary and Edmonton, and all over people are waiting for beds. I know there are people in Lethbridge waiting for beds, and this is nothing but good news.”
Half of the remaining 24 beds are designated for residents with mental health needs; they are set to open in early 2017.
Comments