Cornwall Ontario — In 2004, CCH assumed ownership and operation of the two hospitals and patients saw the immediate benefits of the new complementary mission, vision, and values, and the provision of integrated health-care services. The Ontario Health Care Restructuring Commission directed the amalgamation of both institutions to reduce service duplication and improve cost efficiencies. In 2006 the city witnessed the amalgamation of the Emergency and Critical Care services to the McConnell site. Two years later the “Early Works Project” was complete which included renovations to the Critical Care Unit and the Birthing suites. These changes created significant opportunities in the areas of quality health care provided, as well as cost savings and enhancing the quality of life for all residents in S.D. &G. and Akwesasne. By 2010 there was a review to the mission, vision and values, along with new strategic directions that guide the organization to this day.

Jeanette Despatie, Chief Executive Officer, reflected on CCH’s decade of dedication to care. “The first decade for Cornwall Community Hospital has seen advancements that have positioned the organization as a leading health care provider for years to come. The people – staff, physicians, and volunteers – that make up Cornwall Hospital have considered the needs, planned for the gaps, responded to challenges, and executed the strategies targeted at meeting the health care needs of the community.”

The Hospital has had undeniable progress over the past 10 years. Now fully immersed in the final phase of its redevelopment project, substantial and ongoing improvements are, rightfully, getting all the attention. Some of the vital initiatives that were completed included constructing a 95,000 square foot addition to accommodate the ED, a new CT scanner, an MRI, and new operating rooms. CCH also invested in the expansion and renovation of the Women and Children’s Health Department and Birthing Rooms, all while earning the highest possible level of commendations – Accreditation with Exemplary Standing meeting 98 per cent of the necessary requirements – from Accreditation Canada.

“2014 will be memorable as we bid farewell to our construction friends, occupy our new build and the renovated space throughout the entire building. Our greatest celebration, however, will be the consolidation of our acute care team. This will be an excellent opportunity to advance our Work-life Culture initiatives with an aim to improve the patient experience by enhancing the Work-life Culture. With construction behind us and the moves completed, we look forward to advancing our Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives with staff and physicians throughout the organization,” added Despatie.