New care beds for Grand Forks out for tender
By Contributor
A Request for Proposals (RFP) for the design, construction and operation of 40 new publicly funded residential care beds in the Grand Forks-Boundary area has been issued by Interior Health Authority (IH).
“These new residential beds will be a great benefit for Grand Forks and the surrounding area,” said Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater. “This will ensure seniors get the care they need close to their loved ones.”
Residential beds provide 24/7 care and support for individuals with complex care needs including the frail, elderly and those with dementia, whose needs may change over time.
The RFP seeks proposals from not-for-profit and other private operators with experience in residential care project development and operation.
“It is important that we continue to focus resources where there is the most need,” said Norman Embree, IH Board Chair. “IH is committed to ensuring that the clients and patients we serve continue to receive the appropriate level of care in the best possible setting.”
The 40 new beds for Grand Forks are part of the total 527 residential care beds announced by IH earlier this month. The new units are needed to meet the growing needs of an aging population and are being distributed according to where the largest growth projections of seniors are forecast.
A proponent meeting is scheduled for December 15th. The RFP and more information are now posted on the BC Bid website (www.bcbid.ca<http://www.bcbid.ca>).
Interior Health anticipates successful proposals will be awarded by spring 2011, with completion of the new beds anticipated by 2013.
