KHSC launches new comfort-boosting projects after grant funding shakeup

Thirteen initiatives receive support to improve patient and family experiences across Kingston hospitals.

Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is moving ahead with 13 new projects designed to improve comfort, safety and care for patients and families. The projects were selected through KHSC’s Patient and Family-Centred Care (PFCC) Grant, which is funded by donations to the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation. A total of $10,000 was awarded this year.

Applications from teams at both Kingston General Hospital and Hotel Dieu Hospital were reviewed by a volunteer committee of Patient Experience Advisors. Co-chairs Patti Cox and Sue Bedell said they look for proposals that improve emotional, physical or spiritual well-being, especially for patients experiencing distress.

One of the funded initiatives will redesign the Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence treatment room. Staff say the updated space will help reduce fear and anxiety for patients who often arrive in acute crisis.

Other funded projects include traditional medicine bundles for Indigenous patients, a new children’s change table in ENT and audiology, upgrades to the Emergency Department family room, KidsInclusive supports and a refreshed KidsInclusive waiting room. All projects will roll out over the next year.

Story by Alyssa Brush