Health Minister Terry Lake was joined today by community leaders, residents and Northern Health physicians and staff for the grand opening of the new Haida Gwaii Hospital and Health Centre - Xaayda Gwaay Ngaaysdll Naay.

“This hospital is an important investment for Haida Gwaii and the surrounding communities, providing a healing environment for patients and families as well as giving health professionals the tools they need to provide quality health-care services,” said Lake. “It’s also a reflection of our focus on improving the network of services for rural B.C. residents and addressing the unique challenges those in smaller centres may face accessing care.”

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“This is a place of healing, it’s a place we come to when we are in need,” said kil tlaats 'gaa Peter Lantin, President of the Haida Nation. “This new hospital is a welcome addition to our community and it is a comfort to know that people who call Haida Gwaii home will be cared for in a facility that will enhance their recovery.”

The new hospital also has designated space for diagnostic imaging, as well as laboratory and pharmacy services. An ambulatory/primary-care centre provides an area for the delivery of public, mental health and addictions programs, and home and community-care services.

The total value of the facility is approximately $50 million, with funding cost-shared by the Province and the North West Regional Hospital District.

“This new facility is the result of years in planning, diligence and ongoing support of our community partners. Thanks to the long-term diligence of everyone involved over the years, and the investments of the Province and North West Regional Health District, residents on Haida Gwaii will have access to  state-of-the-art health care services in their community,” said Harry Nyce, North West Regional Hospital District chair.

“This new facility has been built with local people, cultures and values in mind,” said Colleen Nyce, Northern Health board member. “The services our staff provides here reflect local community needs as well as delivering excellent care in a refreshed and modern setting.”

“This new hospital has been a work in progress for this community for many years,” said Village of Queen Charlotte Mayor Greg Martin, “It is truly a boon to our community to see this idea have become a fully-realized facility.”

The 5,000-square-metre (54,000-square-foot) two-storey building also features outdoor patios with views towards the ocean, which are accessible to patients, staff and visitors. Each single-bed room has a private washroom and features windows to allow for an abundance of natural light.

The project has placed focus on sustainable design and construction, with the goal of achieving Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. In addition, the use of wood has been optimized in the construction of the hospital, including exterior and interior finishing consistent with the Wood First Act.

The old facility is now closed and is scheduled for demolition within the next few weeks.