Issue link: http://viha.uberflip.com/i/1545815
Healing views by design Did you know there are ten sun rooms in the new hospital? Patients and their loved ones can stop in to enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of the valley from the inpatient tower. Access to daylight, fresh air and nature are an intentional feature throughout the campus. Evidence supports natural daylight in hospitals for: Maintaining healthy circadian rhythms Improving sleep Supporting mood and psychological well-being Helping patients stay oriented to time and place; and Improving staff alertness and satisfaction More Buzz on Bell McKinnon Transport Canada, members of the Project's Nuts'a'maat Alliance and Island Health's Facility Maintenance Operations (FMO) team took in a view of the valley while inspecting the nearly complete helipad located at the top of the inpatient tower. Construction is nearly complete, with training anticipated to begin mid- September. Protection Services and FMO will begin the important task of ensuring this essential transportation option is ready for use when the hospital opens next year. Taking flight for care in Cowichan A helipad atop the inpatient tower ensures patients needing specialized emergency care elsewhere are able to be transported by air. As part of our training and orientation process, site visits will be scheduled to enable teams to familiarize themselves with their new workplace after the building keys are turned over to Island Health. Site walks are restricted at this time, as active construction continues on interior spaces. We understand how important it is to see the new space, and are committed to ensuring that these visits are well-organized and informative. Our goal is to provide all staff, medical providers and volunteers with a comprehensive understanding of the new environment, ensuring a smooth transition and continued excellence in health services and patient care. We also want to reassure the public that there will be more updates to come, and an open house prior to the hospital's official opening, allowing the community to explore the new facility, meet the team, and celebrate this milestone together. These steps are part of our commitment to supporting a smooth transition to the new site and ensuring that everyone feels safe, comfortable, connected to and proud of their new hospital. A look ahead