The new Regina Urgent Care Centre (UCC) reached a construction completion milestone of 100%. The process of hiring staff is currently in progress, and over the next few weeks, the installation and testing of equipment and furnishings will be carried out, according to Saskatchewan Health.
“We are excited to have reached this significant milestone in the construction of the UCC and look forward to improving access to care for patients through this innovative care model,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Chief Executive Officer Andrew Will said. “The UCC provides members of the public with a new alternative for seeking care, including those needing mental health and addictions support.” (Government of Saskatchewan – website)
“Graham Construction is proud to have been part of this landmark, first of its kind, health care facility now complete and ready to begin full operation,” Graham Construction Director Randy Schentag said. “Projects like this are planned and built through significant effort by dedicated team members that share a common vision to enhance the standards of care and safety of health care delivery in our province. As a local contractor, Graham Construction is honored to have been able to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to bring this vision to life and contribute to the positive impact this new facility will have on our city.” (Government of Saskatchewan – website)
Graham provided Construction Management Services for the 17,222 sq. ft. facility, through effective collaboration with the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement and the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Additionally, the seamless coordination among various trades was pivotal in ensuring compliance with crucial infectious control requirements.
The UCC will serve as an indispensable resource for addressing non-life-threatening medical and mental health emergencies in Regina and surrounding communities, significantly alleviating pressures on local emergency rooms. Moreover, it is the first of its kind in Canada to offer a separate entrance and 1,600 sq. ft. of dedicated space for those urgently requiring mental health or addiction resources. Crowded emergency rooms can often exacerbate crises for patients, and this second entrance provides an alternative for those patients.
The facility will be in operation around the clock, seven days a week, and is expected to be fully operational by summer 2024.