Construction on seven new intensive care unit (ICU) beds at Saskatoon's Royal University Hospital (RUH) is set to begin this week, marking a significant expansion of the facility's critical care capacity. The project, funded by a $17 million capital investment from the provincial government and supported by donor contributions, will increase the total number of ICU beds from 19 to 26.
Project Details and Timeline
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill announced on Monday that the expansion will be carried out over two years. The first year will focus on adding the seven new beds, while the second year will involve renovating and upgrading existing ICU spaces. Each new bed will be housed in a private room with 'four walls and a door,' including dedicated space for family members. The rooms will also feature negative-pressure capabilities to prevent the transmission of airborne diseases.
Design and Layout
The final ICU design will consist of two 13-bed subunits, explained Andrew Will, CEO of the Saskatchewan Health Authority. One subunit will be located in the former neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on the third floor, which has been used for ICU patients since the pandemic and is currently vacant. The other subunit will be situated across the hall, where the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) currently operates. Construction on the second subunit will begin once the first is completed.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges
The expansion comes as the province addresses persistent healthcare issues, including emergency room capacity problems at RUH reported last fall. The 2026-27 budget allocated $635.7 million for capital health projects. Cockrill emphasized that staffing the new beds is a priority, with increased training and recruitment efforts underway. He noted that the government is working with union partners to ensure adequate staffing and to alleviate burnout among healthcare teams.
Patient Relocation and Support
Kelly Johnson, executive director for tertiary and surgical services, said patients have been relocated to allow all current ICU patients and teams to remain on the third floor during construction. Support comes from 36 inpatient acute care beds added in 2020. The project aims to enhance patient care and family involvement, with each new ICU bed designed to provide a more private and supportive environment.
