THUNDER BAY - The completion of construction on the original portion of the Hogarth Riverview Manor nursing home means that residents are once again living in the facility.
St. Joseph's Care Group says the first transfers were made over the weekend, with the process expected to be completed in phases over the next few weeks.
The original 96-bed single-storey wing on Lillie Street has been expanded to 128 beds from 96 beds.
The project brings total capacity in the Hogarth Riverview Manor complex—including the adjacent 7-storey tower—to 544 beds, making it one of the largest long-term care facilities in Canada.
In the coming weeks, the expanded wing will accept residents who have been waiting for long-term care at the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and in the community.
St. Joseph's care Group CEO Tracy Buckler calls it a milestone for long-term care in Thunder Bay.
"We often speak in terms of beds, and what's important is to remember the human story," she said. "People will live with dignity in their new home while receiving the compassionate care that they need."
TBR Health Sciences Centre officials have said the opening should significantly reduce the number of Alternate Level of Care patients currently taking up acute-care beds in the hospital.
