A new neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) will open at Brandon’s Regional Health Centre (BRHC), with the centre expected to improve access to specialized care, said provincial Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara on Thursday.
“Every newborn deserves the best possible start in life, and every family deserves to be close to their babies during some of the most challenging moments they may face,” said Asagwara. “This new NICU will provide families a modern, family-centred environment that supports high-quality care, privacy and comfort for families, while ensuring Manitoba’s youngest patients get the specialized care they need close to home.”
Tabbed at nearly $21 million, the care unit will occupy the fourth floor of the centre and is expected to begin accepting patients in 2028.
Once completed, the unit will have 21 private care rooms with a capacity of 24 beds, allowing it to accommodate twins. Each room will also include a sleeper chair so a parent or caregiver can remain close to their baby.
The NICU will feature a procedure room, charting stations for patient monitoring, a breast milk preparation room and family amenities, including a lounge with a kitchenette, showers and public washrooms. It will also connect directly to the labour and delivery unit, keeping families close throughout their care.
In a statement, Treena Slate, CEO of Prairie Mountain Health (PMH), said the unit will benefit Western Manitoba.
“Once completed, the new NICU will have a lasting impact on health care across our region, ensuring patients and families continue to receive specialized care closer to home. I want to thank our staff and physicians for their leadership in developing the vision behind this initiative.”
Since the new provincial government was elected, it has invested $137 million in BRHC.
