Construction of a new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital in Picton took a step closer to reality on October 23.

Premier Doug Ford, Health Minister Christine Elliott and Todd Smith, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services announced an investment of $8.7 million to support the planning and design of the facility.

Once complete, the hospital will replace the existing aged facility, expand capacity, and improve access to care for patients and families throughout Prince Edward County.

"Our government continues to make critical investments in our hospitals from one end of the province to the other," said Ford. "Today's investment is the first step in delivering a new hospital for the people of Prince Edward County that will not only create jobs and support local suppliers during construction, but once built, deliver quality patient-centred care in the community for years to come."

The new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital will feature:

• six additional in-patient beds, bringing the total to 18 beds in private rooms, with the ability to expand to 23 beds for future capacity;
• an expanded emergency department that will provide more space for staff and patients;
• modern surgical suites to deliver care with the best technology available;
• dialysis treatments and diagnostic imaging; and
• outpatient care services including minor surgical procedures such as endoscopies.

Following design of the new hospital, project procurement is expected to begin in 2021.

"Investing in major hospital infrastructure like the new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital will help patients and families receive the connected, high-quality care they need, when they need it, close to home," said Elliott. "This investment is part of our government's plan to end hallway health care and build a modern and connected health care system centred around the needs of patients."

Rural hospitals like Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital play a critical role in ensuring equitable access to high quality care for patients and families across Ontario. This new hospital in Picton is part of Ontario's investment of $27 billion over 10 years to build new and expanded hospital infrastructure.

"Building a new Quinte Health Care Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital represents a collaborative effort reinforced by the unwavering support of our partners and the community we serve," said Mary Clare Egberts, President and Chief Executive Officer, Quinte Health Care.

"We have all spoken with one voice about the need for a new hospital in Picton and the government has heard this message and has taken action. We are grateful for today's announcement, which provides the necessary funds to support the next stage in planning for our new hospital."