The Sechelt Hospital physician lounge has received a long-overdue renovation from its original 1964 design.
It started in September of last year, when Gerry Latham, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) director, approached the Sechelt Hospital Foundation for support to renovate one of the oldest parts of the hospital.
“The vision was to renovate an area that had grown very tired and create a space for the physicians to rest and recharge while on long, stressful shifts, a place to enjoy a quiet few moments while grabbing a snack or lunch and a place to meet with colleagues throughout the day,” Latham said.
Sechelt Hospital Foundation agreed to commit more than $200,000 of donor contributions to design and renovate the space.
VCH project manager Steve Roberts worked with the hospital’s facilities and maintenance department and local contractors from Spani Developments to bring the project in on time and on budget.
Working in partnership and with funding from the Medical Staff Association, Dr. Karen Forgie and Dr. Brian Nelson, along with the Hospital Foundation, helped to create and furnish a space that is more of a home away from home.
It includes a private washroom and shower, two sleep rooms, as well as a confidential meeting space to discuss patient medical matters.
“Located close to the emergency department and hospital operating rooms, we hope the renovated space represents an environment which fosters recharging and reconnection,” said Forgie, president of the Medical Staff Association.
Hospital Foundation executive director Jane Macdonald said the improved surroundings are well deserved.
“When we need them, our health-care team works hard to take care of us and our entire community,” she said. “It’s time they had a place where they can take care of themselves. We are pleased to support our physicians and to share the community’s appreciation for what they do each day.”
For more on the Sechelt Hospital Foundation, visit: www.sechelthospitalfoundation.org or call 604-885-8637.
