The University of Windsor is considering getting into the act when it comes to developing Windsor-Essex's future acute care hospital.
The school is investigating a partnership with Windsor Regional Hospital for a potential health and education park on lands purchased for the new mega-hospital. Windsor Regional Hospital CEO David Musyj said such an arrangement would enrich an already-strong relationship between the two entities.
"Research and education have always been one of the main drivers behind the need for a new acute care hospital in the region," said Musyj in a media release. "Windsor Regional Hospital looks forward to this planning work with the University of Windsor to advance this concept further. The relationships developed by WE-SPARK Health Institute naturally transition into this exciting planning."
Dr. Robert Gordon, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Windsor, also sees growth in that area.
"Students, especially those at the Faculty of Science, School of Nursing and the Schulich School of Medicine, have all benefited from our long-standing relationship through experiential learning, and we have also been exceptional partners in research, innovation and outreach including the WE-SPARK Health Institute," said Gordon.
While any development will be years away, a possible Health Innovation Park will provide dedicated space for collaborative training and research, expanded government and private sector health service providers, and space for businesses to assist in research.
A Health Innovation Park may also potentially provide hotel space for short-term accommodations, residential housing for staff and students, a long-term care facility, a wellness centre and professional medical office space for health care providers.
The Stage Two of hospital planning is underway, with the tendering process set to begin by 2025, with the hope of starting construction in 2027.