The nurse call system at Kiwanis Care Centre is being replaced to improve and protect patient safety.

The nurse call system is being replaced to ensure patients are attended to quickly and efficiently. Due to changes in current technology, the older nurse call system cannot be upgraded simply. To bring the system at Kiwanis Care Centre into code compliance, total replacement is required.

The project is a routine capital investment and $750,000 the total project cost, will be funded by the government of British Columbia. The nurse call system replacement is planned to be completed by March 2013.

Since 2001, more than $7 billion has been spent on health capital projects in British Columbia. Over the next three years, British Columbia's health-care system will benefit from investments including new medical equipment and modernized health facilities as part of a $2.3-billion health-sector capital plan.

Quotes:

North Vancouver-Seymour MLA Jane Thornthwaite on behalf of Health Minister Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid -

"I am proud that our government puts patient safety first. Nurse call systems are vital for all residents at Kiwanis, and I am grateful that the system is being replaced for their safety and their families' peace of mind."

Vancouver Coastal Health president and CEO Dr. David Ostrow -

"Patient safety is extremely important to us. Being responsive and caring to patient safety concerns is a cornerstone of our health care system, and we're always seeking ways to improve."

Media Contacts:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

Vancouver Coastal Health Communications
604 708-5273