Northumberland Hills Hospital. /Facebook photo
Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) closed the 2024-2025 fiscal year with a modest surplus and a clear focus on growth, according to updates shared at the hospital’s Annual General Meeting on June 25.
Finance Chair Michael McAllister reported an $800,000 surplus, thanks to cost containment and internal efficiencies. “Funding did not keep pace with inflation, but we managed carefully,” he told attendees at the Peter B. & Mary T. Smith Community Education Centre.
Board Chair Cyndi Gilmer said upgrades are already underway, including construction of a fourth operating room, infrastructure enhancements, and diagnostic imaging replacements. A Master Planning process is also in progress to guide future development.
NHH CEO Susan Walsh stressed that rising demand is putting pressure on services. Nearly 2,500 emergency visits in the last year involved patients without a family doctor, an 11 percent jump. Walsh said recruitment and retention of primary care providers remains a priority.
The hospital also celebrated key contributors. Dr. Mukesh Bhargava was thanked as he concludes his term as Chief of Staff. Incoming Chief Dr. Paul Ketov steps into the role July 1. Volunteers including Auxiliary President Selena Forsyth and Foundation Chair Gavin Ivory were also recognized.
Port Hope’s Liane Covert was presented with the Experience Partner Award for her volunteer advocacy in mental health care.
More AGM highlights and NHH’s 2024-2025 Annual Report are now available online at www.nhh.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
