Alberta Health Services is hosting a community celebration at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital on Saturday. It is the first large-scale public celebration since the facility opened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
AHS says it’s being held in recognition of healthcare teams, patients, communities, partners, and everyone who helped create the long-awaited facility.
“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of the many hardworking healthcare staff, physicians, and volunteers who have brought this new facility to life,” says Health Minister Jason Copping.
“And to the community leaders who have supported this project right from the early days, your efforts and patience are appreciated,” Copping adds. “Congratulations to the communities throughout the Grande Prairie region. This is an accomplishment worth celebrating.”
The celebration will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot west of the Emergency Department entrance. It will include a free BBQ, a variety of cultural performances, information displays, and guided tours.
“This facility truly belongs to the people of the region,” says Candice Edey, AHS Senior Operating Officer for Grande Prairie. “The opening of the new hospital is an important milestone to celebrate. Now that we’re able, we’re excited to finally share GPRH with the communities and people we serve and express our gratitude to those who helped make the facility a reality.”
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The Grande Prairie Regional Hospital opened its doors to the public on December 4, 2021, a decade after construction first began. Since then, there have been more than 34,000 emergency department visits and more than 1,000 babies delivered.
Anyone entering the building will be required to wear a mask and hand sanitizer.