THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government has announced the development of a new emergency mental health and addictions assessment and observation area at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). This investment is aimed at improving access to comprehensive mental health and addiction services for residents in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario.
“Our government is making record investments to connect more people to the care they need, when they need it, no matter where they live,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.
Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay—Atikokan, added, “This new addition will provide a safe space for patients and families, while also giving healthcare professionals the resources they need to deliver the best possible care. This is another important step in our ongoing commitment to strengthening mental health services close to home.”
Addressing a Growing Crisis
The opioid crisis and mental health challenges have placed immense strain on healthcare services in Northern Ontario, with Thunder Bay often seeing some of the highest rates of opioid-related harm in the province. The need for specialized care has grown alongside increasing emergency department visits related to mental health and substance use.
Dr. Rhonda Crocker Ellacott, President and CEO of TBRHSC, emphasized the critical nature of the investment, saying, “With the steadily rising rates of mental health and substance-use related visits to our hospital, this investment is vital to reduce health inequities and enhance both clinical care and service excellence for patients of Northwestern Ontario.”
A Modern Solution for Mental Health Care
The new facility will include:
- Private and secure spaces for patient and family care.
- Advanced, state-of-the-art environments for healthcare professionals.
- Direct access from the emergency department triage, enhancing patient experience.
- Programming that prioritizes patient-centered care plans.
Construction planning is underway, with schedules to be finalized as the project advances.
Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, praised the initiative, noting, “This initiative will ensure individuals in crisis have access to critical services quickly and close to home, offering them the support they need to begin their recovery journey in a safe and compassionate environment.”
Provincial and Local Impact
The Ontario government’s broader commitment to mental health includes a $3.8 billion, 10-year investment through its Roadmap to Wellness strategy. Thunder Bay has already seen increased support through new addiction treatment beds and the planned Youth Wellness Hub, set to open in 2025.
As Thunder Bay continues to grapple with the opioid crisis and rising mental health concerns, this facility promises a significant improvement in addressing these urgent community needs.
