A $400,000 investment by the B.C. government is expected to greatly improve the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems at BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital.

The improvements, scheduled for completion in June 2013, include the upgrading of the computer system that runs these systems along with the infrastructure so they can operate more efficiently on a single platform.

The multiple systems to be replaced resulted from add-ons and renovations to the hospitals over the past 30 years.

The consolidated HVAC control system will allow for better control of the heating and cooling and maintain a comfortable environment for patients and staff. Maintaining humidity control is critical in areas such as the neonatal intensive care unit and the operating rooms, where infection control is critical.

The new and more efficient HVAC system should also lead to reduced electrical consumption and financial savings (which can be put back into patient care) while reducing the site's carbon footprint.

Since 2001, more than $7 billion has been spent on health-capital projects in British Columbia. Over the next three years, British Columbian'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:

Health Minister Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid-

"These types of projects improve the health and comfort of patients and staff at BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital. It is essential that routine but necessary upgrades like this go forward. Protecting the health and well-being of British Columbian children and families is a top priority."

Nancy Kotani, vice president, Inter Hospital Services, BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre-

"We often take temperature control as a given - but when it's not operating as it should, our patients' comfort is impacted greatly. This investment will ensure that BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital HVAC control systems are state-of-the-art and operating as effectively and efficiently as they should for benefit of patients and families, and the staff who care for them, for many years to come."

Media Contacts:

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

Patrick Blennerhassett
Provincial Health Services Authority
604 675-7416
604 871-5699 (media page)