Incoming interim cath lab project sees cash infusion

The project is a partnership with the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation (RDRHF), which has committed to funding the capital cost of the temporary lab, about a $22 million bill.

“For too long, central Albertans have faced an unacceptable and heartbreaking truth: when a heart attack strikes in Red Deer, the critical, time sensitive care they need is often hours away in Calgary or Edmonton. Minutes matter in a cardiac emergency, and that distance has made a difference for far too many,” explained Manon Therriault, CEO of the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, on the need for the facility.

A cardiac catheterization lab is a dedicated space for specialized teams to carry out diagnostic tests that evaluate heart function and aid in the diagnosis of cardiac health concerns and treating coronary artery disease.

The interim lab will be located in a space that currently exists as the physicians’ lounge, which will be relocated to another part of the hospital. Once the permanent labs are constructed, which is expected to be completed by about 2030, the interim will be turned into a value-added acute care space including vascular and neurology services.

“Developing this lab will allow us to treat more cardiac patients closer to home and support them in their recovery. Enhancing our cardiac services will also support our efforts to recruit and retain the talented professionals needed to care for our region’s patients,” said Janice Stewart, chief zone officer for AHS Central Zone.

Construction is expected to begin by fall 2025 and be completed by early 2027.

Stewart added, they’ve already started the process of recruiting for the space through a two-pronged approach: first, seeking out those who have existing training and are open to relocating and second, supporting existing staff who are willing to step up and advance their education to fit the role.

“We are approaching the time when this dream of ours is going to come to fruition; this dream that central Albertans will no longer be exposed to cardiac care that’s outside of the central zone. A half-a-million people will be able to access the direct services of cardiac catheterization,” said Mayor Ken Johnston.

On March 3, RDRHF announced that it received a $10 million donation from the John Donald family to kickstart the fundraising campaign for the project, the largest it’s ever received, said Therriault.

“I am pleased to support the development of cardiac services in central Alberta, something we’ve long advocated for. This initiative will provide essential care to our community and ensure that more lives are saved closer to home,” commented Donald.

The overarching hospital redevelopment includes plans for an additional patient tower, six new operating rooms, a new medical device reprocessing department, the two cardiac catheterization labs, main building renovations, emergency department renovations and expansions, and a new ambulatory clinic building.

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by Ashley Lavallee-Koenig

Incoming interim cath lab project sees cash infusion

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