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New, more convenient location for patients to stay in Timmins

(Moose Factory, ON) – As of April 1, 2020, Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) patients with medical appointments in Timmins requiring an overnight stay will be booked into the Comfort Inn, located at 939 Algonquin Boulevard East.

All staff working in the hostel will remain WAHA employees, only the location of where they work will change to the Comfort Inn.

WAHA’s executive team reached this decision after a report showed that the number of people needing a place to stay in Timmins for medical appointments had significantly increased over time.

From May to June 2019, WAHA had to provide an average of approximately 21 rooms a day. On some days the number of rooms went as high as 46 and never any lower than seven.

The current hostel in Timmins only has six rooms, accommodating a maximum of 12 people.

“All the changes we make at WAHA are to improve the overall patient experience, and we believe that patients and escorts will have a better experience in Timmins when they are closer to amenities like restaurants, grocery stores, and pharmacies,” said Lynne Innes, President and CEO, WAHA.

The closest drugstore, restaurant and grocery store is only about a six minute walk away from the hotel.

“The decision to close the hostel in Timmins is part of assessments we’re doing of all our facilities, equipment and furnishings to determine where we need to make smart investments that are fiscally responsible as well,” said Eric Theriault, Vice President, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer, WAHA.

Should the Comfort Inn ever become fully booked WAHA staff will book rooms at alternate hotel(s) in Timmins.

About Weeneebayko Area Health Authority

Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) is the leading health-care provider in the James Bay and Hudson Bay region serving a population of approximately 12,000 people. Comprised of hospitals in Moose Factory, Fort Albany and Attawapiskat, and a health centre in Moosonee, along with paramedic and outpatient care services in Peawanuck and Kashechewan. WAHA is affiliated with Queens University in Kingston, Ontario.

For more information, contact:

Elizabeth McCarthy, Director, Communications and Public Relations
705-658-4544 x 2323
705-363-0863
elizabeth.mccarthy@waha.ca