The expansion and redevelopment of Prince Albert Victoria Hospital (PAVH) is one step closer. The Government of Saskatchewan has released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the project, which will provide residents of Prince Albert and northern Saskatchewan improved and expanded access to health services closer to home.
The RFQ is seeking teams interested in leading the design and construction of a new multi-level acute care tower addition to the existing hospital, and the redevelopment and renewal of the existing hospital space. It is expected that the new tower will be built first, with the renovation and redevelopment of the existing space to follow.
Following the close of the RFQ in February 2022 and evaluation of the submissions, a shortlist of no more than three proponents will be invited to proceed to the next stage of procurement: a Request for Proposal (RFP) currently planned for release in spring/summer of 2022.
“We’re pleased to see this significant project moving forward,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “Being close to home when you’re most vulnerable is important to a swift and complete recovery. Increased hospital capacity and expanded services at Prince Albert Victoria Hospital will benefit residents for years to come.”
When complete the project will provide a larger emergency department, enhanced medical imaging services, and a 40 per cent increase in the number of hospital beds to 242 from 173, with shelled space to allow for future expansion. The province will pay 100 per cent of the capital cost of the project. The local community and Victoria Hospital Foundation will raise funds for furniture and equipment.
This project demonstrates a shared commitment to Truth and Reconciliation through the partnership between the Government of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Health Authority, and Prince Albert Grand Council to ensure that culturally appropriate services and spaces are part of this project.
“On behalf of the Executive and our 12 Chiefs’ of our member First Nations, I am pleased that our vision of a new hospital is closer to becoming a reality,” Prince Albert Grand Council Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte said. “As one of the partners, I’m looking forward to our continued collaboration with the Government of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Health Authority to ensure a welcoming, inclusive health care facility that we can all take ownership of.”
“This project milestone has been long anticipated for the community and the SHA,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Acting Vice President of Infrastructure, Information and Support Derek Miller said. “Once completed, the hospital will be better able to serve those in Prince Albert and northern Saskatchewan with expanded acute care and mental health and addictions services closer to home.”
Featured image: (Government of Saskatchewan)
