Six new transition beds open to create acute care capacity in Cold Lake

Alberta Health Services (AHS) will open six new transition beds next week at the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre to better support patients who no longer need acute care (hospital) services but require care in a more appropriate setting.

These transition beds, opening Feb. 10, will offer a safe and comfortable temporary care setting for patients who require additional time or supports to recover from their acute illness before returning home, or who are awaiting a continuing care home space.

“Opening these new transition beds will improve patient flow in hospitals throughout the Bonnyville, Cold Lake, Elk Point and St. Paul area,” says Jordanna Lambert, a Senior Operating Officer in the AHS North Zone. 

“Utilizing these beds will reduce the length of stay for patients in acute care who no longer require acute care services, freeing up beds for patients who do.”

Patients admitted to the transition beds will receive care from licensed practical nurses, as well as registered nurses, healthcare aides, physicians, and other healthcare professionals in rehabilitation, pharmacy or social work, depending on their needs.

“I’m extremely pleased to see these new transition beds open in Cold Lake,” says Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul. “This important investment in our community and local region will ensure patients receive quality care when they need it in the most appropriate place. This is a valuable addition to healthcare in our area.”

Patients in transition beds will receive 24/7 personal or medical support before they return to community living, helping to prevent infection and physical deconditioning, while promoting independence and maintaining social interactions. 

The transition beds will support other acute care hospitals throughout the AHS North Zone, and help in the provision of safe and timely care to patients in the community.

Alberta Health Services provides a range of healthcare services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide excellent, patient-focused healthcare that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.