We also saw real, visible progress at the South Niagara Hospital construction site. Two years after breaking ground, the structure is rising floor by floor — bringing our vision for the future of care in Niagara closer to reality. At the same time, we’ve been working to improve the Emergency Department experience at our hospitals in St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Welland. We know that long wait times are stressful, and while system-wide challenges persist, we’re committed to making the experience more comfortable, compassionate and informative for patients and families during their time in the ED.

Our work doesn’t stop at the hospital doors. Inside our walls, we’re focused on improving how we plan and coordinate discharges — making sure patients leave with the right supports in place, whether they’re heading home or to another care setting. At the same time, we’re working closely with community healthcare partners to help people stay safely at home wherever possible, with better access to home care, primary care and ongoing support. And for those who need hospital care, we’re doing everything we can to ensure they receive it — when and where they need it most. Because delivering truly connected care takes more than a hospital. It takes a region working together.

We’re also continuing to support access and expansion to primary care across Niagara — knowing that family doctors and primary care teams play a vital role in helping people stay well and avoid hospital visits in the first place.

Guided by our strategic plan — and its focus on Putting People First, Delivering Safe and Quality Care and Transforming How We Work — we’re driving meaningful change across our system. We launched a new Health Equity Plan to help reduce barriers to care, and a Patient Experience Plan that will shape how we listen to and act on the voices of those we serve.

These accomplishments are especially meaningful when viewed against the backdrop of the challenges facing hospitals across the province. In a postpandemic world, infectious diseases like measles are resurging — demanding quick responses and constant readiness. At the same time, we are seeing growing demand for hospital services as our population ages and the complexity of care increases. These pressures are intensified by ongoing shortages in health human resources, including physicians. Despite these realities, our teams continue to show up, adapt and deliver care with skill and compassion. Our team members are at the heart of everything we do. Their dedication, compassion and professionalism are what drive our progress. Healthcare is more than a job — it’s a calling. We are deeply grateful for the care they provide each day and the trust they build with patients and families across Niagara.

As we look to 2025-26, our focus turns to the next chapter in our transformation: the redevelopment of the Welland Hospital site. This project will modernize infrastructure, expand services and help address the chronic and complex care needs of our population.

We’re also entering the next phase of our Health Information System transformation — giving our teams access to better tools and real-time data that will help personalize care and improve outcomes.

Thank you for your continued support, trust and partnership. We are proud to move forward with you — building a healthier, more connected Niagara for generations to come.

Lynn Guerriero, President and CEO

Marylee O’Neill, Board Chair