The Owen Sound Regional Hospital. (Photo by Nathan Shubert)
Brightshores Health System says it is moving ahead with a new regional model to support the continued growth of endoscopy services across Grey Bruce.
Under the new approach, services will be organized around four regional endoscopy hubs located in Wiarton, Markdale, Meaford and Owen Sound.
Brightshores says the coordinated network is intended to increase capacity over time while continuing to provide timely, high-quality patient care.
Vice President of Clinical Programs and Quality, Chief Nursing Executive Beth Morris says the regional model will strengthen the program now while helping meet future demand.
As part of the transition, endoscopy services currently performed at Southampton Hospital will move to Wiarton in July. Expanded service hours in Markdale are expected to begin in September.
Meaford and Owen Sound will continue providing endoscopy services as they do currently.
Brightshores says the focus is on maintaining strong ambulatory care services at each site through patient-centred care, efficient use of resources and readiness for future growth.
Officials add Southampton Hospital will continue to play a meaningful role in the regional system, with future expansion of ambulatory care services planned.
Brightshores says more information will be shared as implementation moves forward.