Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) is launching the first of three public forums to gather community input for its long-term master-plan Growing Care for the Future.
The sessions, starting Thursday, November 27, will take place on Zoom and are part of a comprehensive engagement strategy designed to ensure the hospital meets the evolving healthcare needs of Northumberland County.
The Master Plan will guide hospital development for the next 20 to 30 years, addressing population growth, an aging demographic, and rising demand for complex acute care. More than 75 per cent of inpatient days at NHH are for residents aged 65 and older, a group projected to reach 34.5 per cent of the county’s population by 2036.
“We want everyone with an interest in NHH to help co-design this plan,” said Susan Walsh, NHH President and CEO. “Through forums, surveys, and discussions, residents, staff, patients, and volunteers can help shape the hospital’s future.”
Earlier phases of the Master Planning process focused on gathering insights from internal stakeholders, including staff, physicians, and volunteers. The next phase invites the broader public to validate early findings and share ideas for hospital services, facilities, and programs.
The Master Plan aims to build on NHH’s current strengths, leverage technology and innovation, support sustainable operations, and secure Ministry of Health approval for long-term redevelopment. Community participation is key to ensuring the plan reflects local needs and priorities.
Residents can register for the first public forum and learn more about the process at nhh.ca. The planning process will continue through March 2026, with a formal submission to the Ministry of Health scheduled for May 2026.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
