building never designed for contemporary clinical requirements. “Choosing a full replacement allowed Northern Health to design and build a modern facility that meets today’s clinical and patient care standards, integrates cultural safety, and supports future generations.” RESPONDING TO A CHANGING REGION The decision to replace the hospital was rooted in the region’s demographic and economic profile. Growth in the Peace Region is often tied to resource project cycles, bringing rapid increases in population and sudden pressure on services. “These industries create periods of rapid population fluctuation, particularly during project cycles, resulting in increased pressure on essential services, including health care,” says Thomas. At the same time, the population is gradually aging, increasing demand for accessible inpatient care and transitional services. The region also includes a significant Indigenous population. “There is a large population that identifies as Indigenous in the region, so cultural safety and Indigenous informed design have become essential elements of the project,” says Thomas. Planning revealed that many of the existing hospital’s challenges were structural. Emergency services were constrained by limited treatment spaces and congestion. Imaging areas were fragmented and disconnected from emergency 41 APR 2026 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA
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