Crowne Plaza Hotel to become 'satellite health facility' as Hamilton COVID-19 cases climb

Hamilton's two hospital networks are transforming the former Crowne Plaza Hotel into a "satellite health facility"to treat some patients "in the event of a surge in COVID-19 cases."

The temporary, off-site spacewill be for patients who don't need to be in hospital for treatment andare getting care whilepreparingto transition to community settings, like long-term care homes.

The satellite facilitywillhelp Hamilton Health Sciences and St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamiltonfree up 10 per cent of its acute care capacity.

The hospital networks are usingprovincial funding to set up the new location.

Interprofessional clinical teams and primary care physicians will staff the space, according to a release from St. Joe's.

"The new Satellite Health Facility will allow us to support patients who are waiting for alternate care arrangements in the community, while reserving in-hospital space for those with the most urgent medical needs," Rob MacIsaac, HHS president andCEO, said in the release.

"Protecting acute care capacity in our hospitals is more important than ever as we contend with a global pandemic while at the same time entering the 2020-2021 infectious season."

Teams from both hospital networks are planning to open the facility at 150 King St. E. on the week of Oct. 19.

It will openwith60 beds, buthas space for 150 bedsif needed.