Renovations are coming to the Sechelt Hospital's emergency department – but it means some disruptions for those arriving to the department this holiday season and into the New Year.
Pre-construction began Dec. 4, according to a letter from Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), and is expected to be completed next summer.
The upgrades are to "to improve the safety and privacy of patients and staff in our hospital and meet the growing needs of our community," said the letter.
While both entrances to the hospital remain the same, the vehicle drop-off area and parking have changed. The roundabout drop-off in front of the department will be closed and instead patients are to be dropped off at the temporary 10-minute patient drop-off parking. HandiDART pick up and drop off will be in front of the east main entrance.
VCH asks that patients come to the department with only one accompanying visitor whenever possible, so as to reduce waiting room congestion. Those visiting the hospital but not the emergency department are asked to use the east main entrance.
