With many experts predicting a surge in COVID-19 cases here in the next couple of weeks, many Canadian hospitals are looking for constructive solutions for expanding care facilities.
The world marvelled at China’s ability to build a two-storey, 645,000-square-foot hospital in 10 days.
With many experts predicting a surge in COVID-19 cases here in the next couple of weeks, many Canadian hospitals are also looking for constructive solutions as they scramble to prepare.
They’ll have to be “creative” to address an influx of patients and the overflow situations that will result, according to the CEO of HealthCareCAN, the largest national organization of hospitals in Canada.
“They need to be ready for the worst scenario, which would be over-capacity, hospitals not able to treat as many patients as they’re getting at their door,” Paul-Émile Cloutier said.
He says hospital administrators are looking at recreation centres, hotels and other facilities that may be vacant right now. As well, some have ordered “makeshift” hospitals and quarantine centres to be constructed. “They do not want to be in the same position as Italy,” he says.
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‘Tight timeline’
Construction has begun this week on a 93-bed Pandemic Response Unit at Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, Ont. The temporary modular structure, being built in the hospital’s parking lot, is expected to be in operation by April 10. It consists of an aluminum frame covered with an “architectural membrane,” and will be outfitted with partitions, washrooms, hand-sanitizing stations and a dedicated supply of oxygen for each bed.
“We’ve set a tight timeline,” said Eric Vandewall, the hospital’s president and CEO. “The date was chosen to match our anticipated surge of cases, and while it’s tight, it’s realistic, and we’re committed to that date.”
The hospital is also considering housing some patients — those who require a lower level of care — in nearby hotels. “That work is underway,” Vandewall said. “We are finalizing arrangements with local hotels this