Northumberland Hills Hospital is reporting a stronger financial position while highlighting a year of growth, new programs and investments aimed at meeting the healthcare needs of west Northumberland.
At its annual meeting Wednesday, the hospital’s Board of Directors reported a $1.1 million operating surplus for the fiscal year ending March 31, an improvement over the previous year’s $800,000 surplus. Hospital officials said the positive result came despite ongoing financial pressures, including increased labour costs and approximately $13 million in capital investments to modernize medical equipment and clinical systems.
Board Chair Cyndi Gilmer said the board spent the past year strengthening its governance framework while continuing to support the hospital’s strategic priorities. She also thanked staff, physicians, volunteers and community partners for their ongoing commitment to patient care.
President and CEO Susan Walsh highlighted several new programs introduced during the year, including NHH@Home, which provides eligible patients with comprehensive home care services, a new Stroke Recovery Clinic, and the Newborn, Perinatal, Reproductive Care Clinic.
The hospital also invested in new diagnostic imaging technology, including an MRI, SPECT-CT equipment and upgrades to its medical device reprocessing systems. Other improvements included a new emergency department wait time dashboard and self-arrival kiosk to improve patient flow and provide more information to visitors.
The meeting also marked a leadership transition, with Cyndi Gilmer concluding her term as board chair. Michael McAllister will succeed her following the annual meeting. Several new board and community committee members were also welcomed, while four Heart of Experience Awards recognized outstanding contributions by physicians, staff, volunteers and hospital teams.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
