The new Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital (JPCH) in Saskatoon was showcased today, as partners achieved their vision of having Saskatchewan children and expectant mothers receive exceptional health care closer to home. The JPCH will officially open to patients on September 29, when all pediatric and maternal inpatients will move in from Royal University Hospital and new admissions will be accepted. Premier Scott Moe was joined by lead donor Jim Pattison, representatives from the Government of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation, donors and community members to celebrate the official grand opening of the hospital.
Almost 60 pediatric specialists, sub-specialists and surgeons are working in more than 20 specialties at the 176-bed hospital.
“We appreciate the opportunity to be part of this exciting vision that made the children’s hospital a reality to serve the health care needs for children and their families in the province of Saskatchewan,” donor Jim Pattison said.
The total capital cost for the JPCH is $285.9 million. The province provided about $257 million in capital costs, while the JPCH Foundation and donor contributions totalled about $75 million for capital costs ($28.3 million), hospital equipment and furniture ($46.6 million). The 2019-20 Provincial Budget provides $9.6 million to finalize information technology needs and an additional $23 million to support operations when the hospital opens later this month. The number of licensed pediatricians has nearly doubled in Saskatchewan since 2007, from 62 to 122.